So i just recently found out that sitting in our shed is a 289 V8 from a Fairlane. Dad says these are really hard to come by, but were good motors.
Ive been curious to see how you guys think this would do in a ford pickup, and, if worth it, how hard would it be to swap it into my 90 f250

 

It was a fairly common engine, especially in Mustangs. It's part of the Windsor family, but I'm not sure if the bellhousings were all the same (doubt it). IMO something like that would be better in a period correct (mid 60's) truck, or a car from that time. Not sure if you'd be satisfied with the power output in a heavy truck.

 

I imagine it would be like a 302. Great in a small car, or truck. But suck in a full size pickup.

 

Bell-housings are the same except for the early 289 with only 5 bolts.

 

well the problem is my current 5.8 runs like crap, and id prefer to have a lower power (which is still probably more than i got now) but more reliable engine. also perhaps get some better milage

 

Why would you want less power? That makes no sense. It won't be any more reliable, and I really doubt it will get any better mileage, unless you count the times you'll have to get out and push it up the hill.

 

no, u mis read, id prefer to have a lower power motor compared to one that runs crappy

 

I did misread that. But, ideally, wouldn't you like to have a powerful motor that runs smooth? Why not fix the 351w and have that?

 

I second rebuilding, or fixing the 351w.

Keep the 289. Stick it in a old mustang, small ranger, bronco2, ect.

 

Just repair the 351, when and if you get the 289 COBBLED into the truck, you will have a lower horsepower engine that still runs like crap .. Even if you got it to run well your fuel mileage will be terrible since the smaller engine will be working it's self to death trying to keep up.. And, if you have an OD transmission just FORGET about overdrive, the 289 won't have enough torque at a low RPM to make it useful..

I'm not trying to pee on your parade, just pointing out reality..

 

289 is a destroked 302. The crank and rods are the difference between the two. Use the same pistons, heads, and intakes.

I would never give up a 351W for a 289/302.

Didn't it occur to you that fixing your 351 would be easier than rebuilding and swapping in a different engine?

Scott

 

I know your all right about fixing my current engine..... its just frustrating as all hell just cause i dont know whats wrong, and neither does anyone else, and i dont have the money to fix it even if i did know what was wrong

 

Have you tried pulling the codes???

 

If i say yes will you believe me?, no i havent as im not getting a check engine light, and yes the light works.

 

There could be stored codes in the continuous memory without a light being on...

If you don't have the money to fix this engine, where do you plan to get the money to do a swap???