I finally got the engine, a 289, running in my ‘68, “runs & sounds” great, smooth. Has four barrel carburetor. BUT!!! It smokes horrendously from the tailpipe and overheats just idling in the driveway and there’s almost no oil left on the dipstick from my original oil change. I’ve put 0 miles on the engine since I bought the Bronco - I’m guessing it’s the original engine no rebuild.

From what little engine knowledge I have, sounds like it needs a lower end rebuilt, ring job? ( I really have no idea or engine experience)

I’m wondering if I should have the entire engine rebuilt or if I can just have the lower end rebuild or whether I should try to find a good running used 289 or 302 and just replace it with that?

I’m looking for the best bang for the buck, and I certainly don’t want to buy a $300 engine, install it and find out it needs the same or more work than my old one. Any thoughts, ideas welcome!

Thanks

Pull it all and have it all gone through. Including having the heads checked as well as a valve job. Go talk to the guys at greeley automotive and machine.

^ what he said.

x3. I've been impressed with Western Engine Supply. The did the heads on the engine I built and it was quality work.

Yep what ^^^^^ they said

Rebuild it

Are you concerned with originality? Perhaps there are gains to be had with rebuilding a used 302 instead? 351?

In any case, it's unanimous - rebuild it!

Ok, so rebuild it. Yeah I figured as much. I just called and talked to Greeley automotive and machine(gamracingengines.com)

Nice guy, very informative as to what probably needs to be done and as far as $$$ goes, he said plan on $2500-$3000. He said that's pretty standard for a stock kind of rebuild.

I'm sure that's a bargain, but not what I bargained for. Looks like I'll be doing a cheap used engine swap. Maybe I can find one fresh out of a Mustang or Bronco that I can see running before its pulled?

I just can't swing that kinda cheese :(:(:(

Thanks for your input!

Yikes, that’s approaching crate engine prices. Do yourself a favor and get a quote for just the machine work and replacement parts without assembly, it should be less than 2k.

Good used engines are out there. I sold my 302 long block in good shape for something like $300.

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I might have a good 302 long block this winter if I decide to do the roller 5.0 this winter.

Thanks Rob,
I’ll give him a call tomorrow.

I have some awesome engine rebuilding videos that were priceless when I built my 427. Those coupled with some good YouTube videos and you're on your way to rebuilding it yourself. Happy to loan out.

Thanks guys, I appreciate the encouragement!
I'll post up when I figure this out...

I have a bunch of new top end stuff if needed. Cam, lifters, rockers, timing chain, etc

Ok, well it must have been fate? I got a running 289 heart transplant out of a '65 mustang fastback that I got to see run...and do burnouts!!! The owner said the engine in the Mustang was originally out of an early Bronco!!!

Sounded healthy but just the fact that I saw it run was enough for me! And at $200 bucks I won't complain! (yet ;)

to be continued...

Full circle, both the engine and donuts!!! No video of said burnouts?

Congrats on finding a motor! You know your now committed to post a Bronco burnout