How hard is it to rebuild a 1979 Ford F-150 engine (300 inline, 6 cylinder, 4.9L)?

Asked by 1979F150Ranger Feb 01, 2015 at 03:21 PM about the 1979 Ford F-150

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I recently bought a 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger work truck that leaks more oil than not. I have
no issues following along in a repair book though have no never taken on this large of
job...is a rebuild feasible for a beginner who has time and patience? ...and the ability to get
the tools necessary.

2 Answers

159,085

An engine rebuild is NOT something a beginner should tackle. There are many items that need to be measured to a tolerance of .001". Cylinder taper must be calculated or measured, cylinder size, crankshaft rod, journals, crankshaft main journals, crankshaft run-out, crankshaft end play and valve guides / stems must all be looked at. I would either buy a rebuilt of look for a good used engine if I were you. Perhaps someone you know or a relative has the knowledge to help you.

74,270

Is the vehicle itself in good shape? The truck is 35 years old, if in good shape I'd invest in a remanufactured engine from a reputable company who does remans. If the rest of the vehicle is not in so good a shape just find a used engine.

1 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

F-150

Looking for a Used F-150 in your area?

CarGurus has 14,968 nationwide F-150 listings starting at $1,712.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    OJ
    Reputation
    42,520
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    16,040
  • #3
    Rowefast
    Reputation
    15,860
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford F-250
6 listings
Used Ford Mustang
65 Great Deals out of 1,259 listings starting at $4,995

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.