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I need some advise. I have a CCLB '83 F350 that I am restoring/rebuilding. I currently have a 460 crate motor with about 15K miles on it that came with the truck when I purchased it. It is a 4x4, 4.10 gears, with a manual 4 speed tranny (a farm truck). I intend to use the truck as a general use/towing vehicle. I've noticed that the setup I have now works well locally, but I tend to tow boats and trailers long-ish distances, over mountain passes. I plan to get a 5 speed manual transmission to aid in highway MPG and RPM (and I have no need for the "granny low" gear). But I am also planning to replace the engine to get a bit more HP and Torque. After considering converting it to diesel, I started to look at staying on the 460 platform. That got me looking at ATK stroker motors. The downfall is it seems that these are built more toward racing (ie: high RPM). I want torque. I want to tow comfortably at 70MPH. With room to accelerate for hills/passes. I have built many of my own engines, but I am looking more for a "purchased complete" option at this time. I have a lot of suspension, body, and interior work to handle - I don't want to throw an engine build in the mix.
Also, MPG is a consideration, but not the make or break feature. I just want a capable setup that does not leave me wishing I just did a 7.3L conversion. Buying a new truck is also not an option as I am partial to the '80-'86 F-series platform. I really just want it to be surprisingly modern in capability - a "do everything" truck that turns heads...
Anybody have any thoughts or suggestions? I'm just lost as to which direction to take this thing: Built 460 with blower/supercharger vs Stroker 521, 514, 502 vs ???
I need guidance. Thanks in advance.
Also, MPG is a consideration, but not the make or break feature. I just want a capable setup that does not leave me wishing I just did a 7.3L conversion. Buying a new truck is also not an option as I am partial to the '80-'86 F-series platform. I really just want it to be surprisingly modern in capability - a "do everything" truck that turns heads...
Anybody have any thoughts or suggestions? I'm just lost as to which direction to take this thing: Built 460 with blower/supercharger vs Stroker 521, 514, 502 vs ???
I need guidance. Thanks in advance.