rebuild my 351m, get a 400 to rebuild or go 429/460?

Question

I really like my old 79 Ford Bronco 4x4.I have never had a truck with huge tires like this one before, and I paid only $80 (eighty)for this truck.I have had it over a year now and never drive it except around my acreage.We get alot of snow, 2 feet right now.People with 4x4's even get stuck in their driveways, but my old 79 just cruises thru it like nothing.It kinda reminds me of a bulldozer because it is so huge.The big red coil springs in the front remind me of a bulldozer or something.Right now the engine is running, it dosnt leak or burn oil, but since I am on a budget I want to take the next couple of years to do up an engine for my truck.I find nothing but good about the original 351M on all the searches ive done.I also found that a 429, 460, and 400M will basically bolt right up to my transmission.Considering that this truck will only be driven in winters, and around my acreage, which engine would be the best to build up? I am totally amazed at how my $80 truck performs.Thanks

Answer 1

keep what you got. When you change motors/butcher it up accessory brackets, hoses, belts may be different causing new problems. A larger motor may be hard on the drivetrain.

Answer 2

You keep mentioning budget, so that's what I'm going on here. The big block parts 429/460 are expensive in relation to the small block, and it's been my experience you can build much more horsepower for a ton less $$ with a small block. The big blocks are torquier, so that may help you in your off-roading, but again, you can still do as good for a lot less with the small block. I'd recommend getting a 5.0 small block (like from a Mustang) 1985 or older (those years have carburetors so you don't have to worry about computers/electronics in your old '79). There are a TON of parts for those engines and you can build up serious power/torque as you see fit. It will still bolt to your trans. Not sure about the motor mounts in a Bronco.

Answer 3

Well, since Katrina had such high a intensity and category rating, that would have to indicate a symptom of Global Warming What political party is denying Global Warming? A hint, "They wear red" What Administration was it again that was responsible for cutting the funding for necessary levee repairs! I'll give you a hint, "He doesn't address very well" Yes - Bush and the Republicans are to blame, again! And I do recall Bush claiming he didn't know about the dangers that Katrina posed - yet - they have him on video in a pre-Katrina disaster briefing meeting where they are telling him about the potential dangers and possible disaster. Bush lies again! And then he happily flew off to a San Diego fund raiser while hundreds of women, children and elderly drowned! So nice Wake up sheep

Answer 4

351m is fine but for maximum torque {pulling power} go with the 460

Answer 5

do up another 351, yours is keeping you happy , leave the big $ blocks to the " mines bigger " crowd, have fun

Answer 6

don't waste your money, it will out last you :)