Own a 67 inherited from my father-in-law after he passed away. It's been sitting in the garage for years being used only once in a while to run around town. He had the interior and exterior restored but never worked on the engine. It spews blue smoke and leaks coolant like mad from the front of the engine and runs like crap. The only thing I've done to it was get rid of the points and converted it to the Pertronix ignition.

I've decided to change the engine so it will be a nice driveable weekend car. I just want to get a crate engine, long block, and keep it simple. My question: Is there anything wrong with a rebuilt engine from Kragen, Napa, or any other local auto parts store? I'm not looking for a performance engine. It currently has a 289 in it so I'll replace with the same size. I'm not going to be racing around or going to car shows. I just want to keep it stock and simple.

Or should I look into getting an engine from Mustangs Plus or Mustangs Unlimted or some other outfit specializing in Mustangs?

 

I wouldn't trust a local auto parts store engine, I worked at years ago and we started selling engines, you should have seen the hoops customers had to jump through to get a warranty filled. You have no idea of the quality (Chinese) of the pistons, rings, bearings, etc. that are in it. I would stop at a couple local shops and see what they'd charge to rebuild the original 289 (they're getting rare and there's only one original to the car) out of curiousity if you brought them the engine.

I'd also search on the net to see who's close to you that build engines and has a reputation, stock longblock is cheaper than any other. I'd also check corral.net guys are constantly selling perfectly good stock running blocks to upgrade for a steal and useually local to someone.

Go to your local mustang clubs meeting and ask there, either someone will be selling one or knows of a reputable shop.
Jon

 

Why not just have it rebuilt?

 

Odds are better than "good" you will get an engine that will work ok, if one of these re-mans is in your budget then go for it, if you can afford more get the 289 rebuilt, or even do it yourself if you have the desire....

In either case, KEEP your old 289, don't give it up for a core unless you have NO financial alternative.

 

kaliona,

Where are you located, Nor Cal? If you want to keep it original, the best bet is to find a GOOD machine shop and have them rebuild the long block. There is a good one up in Sacramento that did an excellent job on my 351W that I trust with my motors. They spin it up on a machine, verify compression and pre-oil it. Drop me an email if you want the machine shop's name.

 

After talking with a couple other friends, I've decided to have the engine rebuilt. I was told the price will be about the same as getting a crate engine AND I wouldn't have the old engine block sitting in the corner of the garage. Also, I guess it would be a good idea to keep all original parts on the car in case I sell it in the future.

So yes I need recommendations on a good, reputable, won't rip off a noob Mustang owner, machine shop to do this work for me. I'm in Northern Cal, Stockton area. Don't mind driving an hour if I know the shop does good work.

Klone, I'll gladly check out that shop you recommend in Sacramento. I'll send you a pm with my email.

 

I think your best bet is to have the one you have rebuilt. Thats a much better decision that buying one from the parts store. If you do want somewhat of a crate motor I hear really good things about Jasper.

 

Most machine shops are good and cheaper then buying one from a big name and getting screwed.

 

good choice!