I'm really uncertain what path I should choose...I was just planning on installing gt40p heads (already have) and a e303 cam but my engine has 168K, doesn't knock or smoke, but Im thinking the extra compression of the p heads will cause the somewhat tired engine to smoke and then I would end up ripping it down for a rebuild in the long run.....

-----OR------

Last night I ran across Ford racing 306 crate engine (340 hp) with FREE shipping for $3,249.
It has "x" alum heads and the e303 cam. (CJ pony parts #M6007X302)

I think that in the end I would end up close to spending the same amount rebuilding my engine as I would on the crate engine and I wouldn't have to deal with any B.S. from the local machine shop.

Any advice??

 

If that is around your budget then I'd take a look over at fordstrokers.com and put something together yourself.

 

Jesus you would spend almost 3 grand on a rebuild when you already have a cam and heads?

It shouldn't take more than 500-600 to slap that engine back together. All you need is an intake and an engine rebuild kit(rings,gaskets,etc.)

Besides a 306 isn't all that. It's only 4 more cubes. And they probably jack the price up because of that.

 

Not really what I meant.....Being a 306 is NOT a factor for me. The only item I have for a rebuild right now is a set of iron gt40p heads that need a valve job. That's it - no cam or anything else.

If I tear my current 168k mile engine down, I'm really doubt I'll only need to re-ring the engine. I also doubt the crank will only need to be polished and not turned. I have had an engine rebuild nickel & dime me in the past. I think an honest, no B.S. grand total for rebuild would be around $2500 (give or take)

There's ALWAYS something to be found bad once you start the tear down & inspection!

 

I will just point out one thing that is hard to drive over the internet.

Downtime. Having a complete engine and a complete running car is literally just a few hours away from driving. On a weekend with a couple of knowledgable buddies you drive your car in, wrench and drive it out.

Rebuilding your own engine can take so long, you sometimes forget where some things go. Not to mention the surprises. Going out and renting special tools. Driving something else in the meantime. Tying up a garage while the car is apart.

 

Good point for all to remember. How many times have you guys gotten your parts back from the machine shop well after they said it would be done because the local bigshot racer got moved to the top of the priority list!

Been there, done that.

I'm really on the edge of ordering the crate engine. Good running, no downtime and no b.s. from the machine shop or orders hung up in shipping - or something ordered/received wrong.

While some may say you can put a more powerful engine together for that money, Please keep in mind this is my daily driver. I'm old enough to realize there is always somebody faster.

 

never try to have a motor done locally right before race season or during race season, you will always be at the bottom

 

Well, I just ordered my 306 Ford Racing crate engine....After doing the math I just dont think it's worth the frustration of hold-ups, let-downs, surprises, etc. to rebuild.

Let's face it....no way in HELL that I could take my 168K mile engine and just re-ring and slap on some new gaskets for $500-600 like was mentioned in an earlier reply (LOL)

Besides, I don't see how I could build an engine with alum heads/ 340 hp for $3,249....

My engine should be here by the end of the month (feb). So now the wait begins......at least in the meantime I can rebuild my T5!

 

i think you made a good choice.at very least you have piece of mind. IMO you can't beat a ford crate engine quality,your last one lasted 168,000.may not be the highest hp but it is quality.

 

any plans on what you are going to do with the spare engine?