After tearing my 317 Lincoln y block down, I'm trying to find out if my car would lose a ton of value if I didn't keep the original engine. The block and heads are in good condition but it needs to be bored out and finding oversized pistons or the next size up, the 341 pistons is proving difficult. I was considering building a 302 or 351 and put it in but wanted to keep it original. Kinda thinking about all options at this point. Don't want a race car but dependable cruiser. I appreciate the advice

Brad
Sierra Vista Arizona
1954 Lincoln Capri

I really wanted to redo the motor and keep it original since it came with factory air. The compressor looks like an old Harley engine and it seems to still work. The car has 68k miles, all brightwork is there any in really good condition. The interior is shot but has power windows and seat. Glass is good. Wanted a project and since this car has no rust at all and 99% complete, it seems like a good starter.
I know this is a y block forum and I've gotten a lot of good info from a lot of people on here. The thought of someone not using the original motor would put some people off the rails, and I totally understand. But if this car isn't really a highly sought after car, it may be worth it to use a more easily buildable motor.
I wanted to try to rebuild the car as much by myself with not a lot of experience.
The good thing is that I have the interior totally gutted, the engine out and apart and I haven't had an issue removing a screw, nut or bolt. Rebuilding the steering and suspension rubber and bearings might just be fairly easy considering the easy of removing parts so far.
I still have to figure out the motor. Not an easy decision

Brad
Sierra Vista Arizona
1954 Lincoln Capri

I think you just answered your question. Original in my opinion is the only way. It retains the character and value. The small block Ford swap is getting just as boring as the scrub or LS. The money you spend on retrofitting a different engine can be applied to rebuilding the original engine. Ted is the man to get in touch with and discuss your options on a rebuild.

Durham Missouri

Your right, it’s not an easy decision. Or an easy vehicle. As I mentioned on another site, I’ve got a soft spot for those Lincoln’s. The first car I really remember is Dad’s 54 Capri. Same color combination IIRC.

Even a rust free, dry area, old low mileage car needs a lot of work. Not difficult, but you’ll spend more time finding parts than most do. Ball joints and brakes I think are more difficult. All the rubber parts, hoses, brake lines, and more . So there’s a lot in front of you.

I’ve done a number of engine swaps. The easy part is having the new FE, or 351, and transmission on the stand. The hard part is the motor mounts, pan clearance, exhaust manifolds, rear crossmember, etc. Your’s has a hydramatic IIRC. The rebuild of it and adaptors for another engine means new transmission to go with the new engine. More items.

So I think if the block and heads pass all the checks-boils out clean, mag check, sonic check, not badly warped for decking, minimal line bore, etc. rebuild what you’ve got. The parts will be more expensive and harder to come by. But then it’s a bolt up operation. Oil pumps, distributor, intake adapter are minor items. And you’ll know most of your cost going in.

But even at $0.10 an hour for your time, don’t plan on making a profit.



miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

I hear you Mike. Just don't feel right paying almost 2000 for pistons and rings. I probably will rebuild it since you brought up the other issues present with a swap. I just don't know how to test any of the other parts. I tried to test the starter and it just sparked. I was using an ATV battery and maybe it just didn't have the oomph to turn it. it's parts like the oil pump and fuel pump, power brake master cylinder, power steering pump. I have no idea how to test them for functionality. I suppose I could just get rebuild kits for everything and just rebuild them. That way I know they're good.
This is supposed to be a five year project for my wife. Yes, she gave me permission to take on this project. She wants it to look like a 54 scruby she saw, yellow with green roof. I think it'll look really cool.

Brad
Sierra Vista Arizona
1954 Lincoln Capri