Motor rebuild?

Tiny
RAGINGSOUL
  • MEMBER
  • 1980 FORD BRONCO
  • 4.9L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • MANUAL
  • 130,000 MILES
What's the best option? I need to do either a rebuild on the straight 6 cylinder or buy a new or used one. I believe that the block and head is good may need to have it checked though. It's been 30 years since I twisted wrenches on a motor. Would you be able to help decide what the best way to go on a budget?

It has the 4 speed manual and the 1st gear is just a granny gear. Right now, my son is looking at a rebuild kit. Oh, and also, it's a 4x4 as well. Stock 1980 Ford full size Bronco.

All thoughts, ideas and suggestions I am very grateful for.
Friday, March 22nd, 2024 AT 7:09 PM

8 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

As far as rebuilding, it can get expensive really fast. If it was mine, chances are I would try to find a good used one. Also, you may even be able to find a remanufactured crate engine for right around $2,000.00. Have you checked?

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, March 22nd, 2024 AT 10:23 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
I don't know if they can find a good low mile used engine for the 1980 engine. You might need to rebuild the engine or get a rebuilt engine which is not too bad if you shop around. Here is one from ATK for 2 g's:

https://www.jegs.com/i/ATK+Engines/059/DFKCLPG/10002/-1?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw-_mvBhDwARIsAA-Q0Q5kIMgdFBYIL5KMQo5YeGwO7CsPvbG6LfDinNfDOhuA1_HaDKxmq-AaAo9REALw_wcB

Let us know if you need anything else.
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Saturday, March 23rd, 2024 AT 5:48 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Anything?
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Saturday, May 11th, 2024 AT 12:51 PM
Tiny
RAGINGSOUL
  • MEMBER
  • 54 POSTS
Sorry for not responding sooner Ken, I'm not sure. My son is doing all the looking and I have passed on the information to him. He is actually going to buy it.
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Saturday, May 11th, 2024 AT 1:16 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Okay sounds good, let us know if you need us for anything :) have a good weekend
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Saturday, May 11th, 2024 AT 1:17 PM
Tiny
RAGINGSOUL
  • MEMBER
  • 54 POSTS
I will, you are all the best folks. I so greatly appreciate all that you've done for me. I'll also send thanks and appreciation from the folks that didn't say thanks. You have a great weekend as well.
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Saturday, May 11th, 2024 AT 1:22 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Thank you for that.
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Saturday, May 11th, 2024 AT 2:03 PM
Tiny
RAGINGSOUL
  • MEMBER
  • 54 POSTS
It's definitely from the bottom of my heart, you guys have saved me so many times and so much money over the years it's just great. Thank you again.
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Saturday, May 11th, 2024 AT 2:25 PM

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