1985 617 and automatic into 1965 F100
 

1985 Mercedes diesel inline 5 cylinder 617 series engine and automatic transmission into a 1965 F100.

Looking for anyone in North Florida area interested in helping me do some fabrication and complete the swap. The truck currently has a 352 big block with a 3spd on the tree.

What's wrong with the FE block motor?

If you have to ask such a question of a person intending to put a 617 into a 65 ford f150 you can never hope to understand the answer.:P

To me the question would be "Why an automatic?";)

You may have a somewhat collectible truck there, I wouldn't alter it. If you want to do a repower, find a newer truck and do a 4BT, or find a 250 or 350 and do a 4-53T. You will find that the 617 is a dismal performer in a full-sized pickup.

No, I could use a 352 for my 59 fairlane, if he's yanking out a good drivetrain it may be worth getting it from him. I've got to drive past there to visit Mom in Tampa area soon.

Ahhh, then a rewording of the original question is in order:

"Is the FE still in good shape? I'm looking for one!" (MAN THOSE INTAKES ARE HEAVY!!!:D

Or he could just buy my 2000 Dodge Dakota, 4BT swapped, 4x4, Crew Cab........VROOMMMMM!!!!!

Nothing wrong with the FE, the 3 on the column is terrible.

I just want to get into a truck and cruise with it :) The diesel is a bonus!

I already have the donor engine and trans and already own ther truck. Just looking to do an interesting swap.

that's the beauty! the F-100 is NOT a full size pickup! it's much smaller.:cool: apparently, 65 is the first year the ranger name was applied to a pickup!

http://www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-co...965-Pickup.jpg

WIKKI
Fourth Generation (1961–66)
Main article: Ford F-Series fourth generation
1965 F-100

Ford introduced a dramatically new style of pick-up in 1961 with the fourth-generation F-series. Longer and lower than the previous pick-ups, these trucks had increased dimensions and new engine and gearbox choices. Additionally the 1961-1963 models were constructed as a uni-body design with the cab and bed integrated. This proved unpopular and the F-series reverted to a traditional separate cab/bed design in 1964.

In 1965 the F-series was given a significant mid-cycle redesign. A completely new platform, including the Twin-I-Beam front suspension, was introduced that would be used until 1979. Additionally that year, the Ranger name made its first appearance on a Ford pick-up; previou

If you want to buy it, I would sell it to you :) $6000 cash

I really have no interest in getting another truck, I love the lines and look of this truck, just want to do something different with it. Make it into a daily driver.

How could the performance be dismal? The truck weighs around 3200 pounds.
The 85 sedan weighed in around 3400. Is your statement based on facts or just heresay? Just curious.

I just want to get in and cruise and not have to shift. just personal preference. The 3spd on column is what started this whole conversion idea.

It wont be a "work" truck, just a cruiser :) Plus the FE is a fuel pig! I have had f250 and f350 trucks and dont want or need the heavy capabilities of those trucks.

It would be way easier to just throw a c6 in it if you really want an auto. The FE's are good engines and I've had a few. From a 360 to a 428cj, I've loved them all.

Search this site some more as I recall someone doing the same swap into a 60's or early 70's light blue ford step side truck.

Is your statement based on facts or just heresay? Just curious.

I've done two repowers, a 3-53 in a '74 International, and a 5 cylinder 912 Deutz in a '77 Chevy Blazer. The IH was difficult to drive because of the engine's poor torque characteristics. The blazer was much better, despite having only a few more HP (105 vs. 108), as the engine had much better torque characteristics. Plot the HP and torque curve for the 352, and draw a horizontal line through it at the RPM where you do your normal driving. Do the same for the 617 and you'll see how much you're giving up.

It's a great project and you'll learn a lot, just don't expect blazing performance or real big FE numbers.

Will the truck's cross member accept a 617 sump?

http://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gall...186686.520.390

This picture's huge - http://richardsclassiccars.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/056.jpg

Sixto
87 300D

Likely if its a solid axle, no problemo.

Yes, the FE is the only intake I used a shop crane to remove. I 'had' an aluminum intake on my 390 Cyclone GT which was much nicer, should have kept the damn intake when I sold the car.

When that FE comes out lemme know, if the price is right I could use one. I've got an early 390 here in my shop but it was run with a bad oil pump so the rebuild will be quite expensive...not to mention that 390 wasn't an option in '59.

I currently drive the truck like an old lady, as when ever I get into it the three speed loves to bind up on me. Often at the most inoppurtune times like an intersection or such :(. Not really interested in speed or power. Just a reliable powertrain that I know and love :) I have other go fast toys.

Don't get me wrong the 352 has lots of balls and will get up and go but it's in the wrong vehicle for me.

Have been doing some more research and I may be looking for a 2003 or newer Crown Vic IFS, that's the front subframe assembly. That will get me power disc front brakes, power steering and better front cross member suited for my 617 repower.

Seems as though must junkyards have the IFS for about 150 to $400. That's with everything from hub to hub with brakes and suspension.

Are you planning to put the front sump in front of the crossmember?

Have you considered a Jaguar IFS? It is rear steer, which gives considerable more room for the OM617 front sump. Jag IFS transplanted to F100s is fairly common.