Motor rebuild?

1980 FORD BRONCO
130,000 MILES • 4.9L • 6 CYL • 4WD • MANUAL
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RAGINGSOUL
  • MEMBER
  • 54 POSTS
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.
Mar 22, 2024 at 12:09 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,246 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
Mar 22, 2024 at 3:23 PM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,554 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.
Mar 23, 2024 at 10:48 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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anything?
May 11, 2024 at 5:51 AM
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RAGINGSOUL
  • MEMBER
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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.
May 11, 2024 at 6:16 AM
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STRAILER
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Okay sounds good, let us know if you need us for anything :) have a good weekend
May 11, 2024 at 6:17 AM
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RAGINGSOUL
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  • 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.
May 11, 2024 at 6:22 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,554 POSTS
thank you for that.
May 11, 2024 at 7:03 AM
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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.
May 11, 2024 at 7:25 AM
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