Motor rebuild?

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.

8 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,645 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

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,256 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

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,256 POSTS

Anything?

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Saturday, May 11th, 2024 AT 12:51 PM

RAGINGSOUL

MEMBER
48 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

KEN L