ninjanomad

Hello Mustang Fanatics. My name is Joe and I've had my 1965 Ford Mustang for about 5 years now. When I bought it I knew nothing of cars, (Im 24 now) and had the engine rebuilt at a place that quite frankly didn't do a good job. I now need my engine rebuilt again and need some advice. I plan on keeping my straight six body, but would like to know what steps I should take on getting it redone at a place that will do it right and not over charge me. I've put a lot of money into this car, and hearing that I need to spend over 2 grand to fix it has really shot down my spirits. Though selling it off and getting a "reliable car" is what people keep telling me to, I can't bring myself to do that. Instead Im going to save up money and get it redone proper this time.

I live in Santa Clarita (40 minutes from LA) and could meet up to talk about it. If you know of a honest mechanic Id be interested in getting a quote.

Feel free to email if you prefer to talk to me that way. journeybeats@berkeley.ed

ninjanomad

Journeybeats@berkeley.edu somehow missed the u at the end

bop11

First, I think you mean straight 6 not a V6. Why do you think it needs to be rebuilt? Does it; burn oil, make oil, or make a terrible racket? If not maybe it just needs service. 5 years on the engine and how many miles? What are its symptoms? New plugs filters and point and condenser does wonders for engines. What seems to be the problem?

ninjanomad

Oh yeah straight 6. Its burning oil and making a terrible racket. The pistons and other engine parts, Im assuming, needs to be replaced. Again I know very little about engines but it loses power uphill and on the freeway (I no longer drive on the freeway.) I've had it for five years but definitely haven't driven it anywhere near 100,000 miles. Thank you for replying.

ninjanomad

I also went to Wild Pony Motorsports and this is the price breakdown they gave me in rebuilding the engine.

Remove engine for rebuilding and prep for transport to rebuilder. $300
Rebuild motor. $1750
Install accessories and install rebuilt. $500
Shipping back. $100
Engine Oil and Filter. $30

So $2680. I realize I could save several hundred by going to the direct place that rebuilds the engine but its a ways away from where I live. Im thinking that either way this price is more then what I should be paying. Any thoughts?


so would be

bop11

Other thought, buy a used 302 from the 80's. If you want carbureted get one from a Bronco or other Ford truck, and install. Many people have done this so parts are easy. You will have to replace the oil pan with one from an older 302 with the sump in the front to clear the steering and re-drill the timing cover for the dip stick.
You might want to add stiffer front springs and some front disk brakes.

69mach1377

OP, get at least 3 quotes and compare apples to apples.

ninjanomad

Thanks. After getting several quotes Im gunna go with a rebuild for $1800 i feel like this is a decent price for someone who is reliable.

boogerschnot

Are you willing to remove the engine yourself? You could save quite a bit of money this way with basic tools and about $100 for the engine hoist and lifting plate. Its really not hard if you are willing to get dirty. But if you dont feel comfortable I understand.