I wrote a few weeks ago about the troubles with my '55 292. Basically, during a 2 year storage, the engine corroded internally so badly it was STUCK. Initial teardown found bent pushrods but very clean top side of the heads. There was also a coolant leak at the water pump. I didn't tear it down any further as I was exploring my options.

My question to you guys is: Is it more cost effective to have my engine rebuilt or buy a replacement? I have found a completely rebuilt long block 292 for $1,400 + shipping out of TX.

It comes fully guaranteed and tested.

Which way would you guys go with this? Thanks.

My wife said she would divorce me if I bought another car. It scared me so bad I only bought 3 last month!

Are you referring to the rebuilt long block currently on Ebay??  If so, just be careful, I doubt you'll be able to get your money back if it's not "as advertised."   It certainly does look tempting though.

A.J.

South Jersey

SMSgt USAF Retired 
1955 Ford Ranch Wagon & a couple of old guitars...Life's Good!

I did see the 272 on ebay and if it's the same one you are referring to, you are right, it is very tempting. Looks like a very reputable company too. I would not be opposed to swapping in a 272.

My wife said she would divorce me if I bought another car. It scared me so bad I only bought 3 last month!

On the Phoenix craigslist there is a '55 Merc 256 y block for sale,the block & crank has been newly machined,he has new gaskets,bearings and pistons also, $200,no heads.

I'd put a 351W in it .... but the downside to that is that one wouldn't be able to hang with all of us cool Y dudes anymore ..

Doing Fords for 45 years. '56 Customline Victoria

E.J. in Havana FL

I was going to buy a short block for my current project, but after careful review of my lifelong dearth of luck, I decided to do as much of the work I could do myself as possible. I've so far been able to pick and choose what parts I use, clean everything to my satisfaction and ask the machine shop guys many irritatingly stupid, and pointless questions. So far, I'm having a ball and if I had it to do all over again, I wouldn't change a thing..... Good Luck /Duck

BOO- YA!!!

An update for you guys. I just purchased a near perfect complete 272 and I am using the heads onto my 292. The rest of the engine is also in great shape so I will have lots of spare parts should the need arise.

My wife said she would divorce me if I bought another car. It scared me so bad I only bought 3 last month!