First timer: I need some engine rebuilding advice - Ford 302, AMC 360 - how to go about it

benmack1

benmack1

Well-Known Member
Joined
Oct 13, 2010
Location
USA
I am building a 72 CJ5. Total frame off resto. The jeep had an I-6 232 in it and I want to swap in a V8 of some variety. I have been reading as much as I can and this is my first project of this type. I understand the basics, have a nice place and tools to work but I have never rebuilt a motor before and I would rather not screw this part up. I have the frame done, rear and front axles rebuilt and front drums swapped to discs. Now it's drivetrain time.

My plan is a Ford T19 4 spd. I have that in hand so the sbc 350 is now crossed off my list and it's either Ford 302 or AMC 360. From my reading both will be great upgrades and accomplish my goal.

I have a Ford 302 sitting in my shop. It's just the motor itself and needs to be rebuilt so I don't have much in it and am not tied to it. Doesn't have all the accessories hanging on it either so if I see another one decked out with everything hanging on it (AMC or Ford) I am mroe than willing to go with that. I got the one I have now from a friend and heck i can use as a core even if I went that direction and picked up a short block or something.

Obviously an AMC 360 might be the simplest since it will bolt right up.

Anyway, my question. Does anyone have names of shops or local people that can rebuild the Ford or AMC engines that are patient with an idiot such as myself who needs to go slow and be advised as I go? I am located between Burlington and Durham so within some reasonable distance would be nice of course. I can open the phone book but I'll prolli get screwed if I am not careful and I really want to work with someone who knows their stuff and will help me work through this first time.
 
I have done both the 350 and built a 360. ( pics in my gallery) Can't say on the ford.I can say for the money, I would would go with a 5.3 or 6.0. you will be more satisified in the long run for not much more if any money.
***edit*** I just looked at your build. Very nice by the way. What are your plans with the rig. If it is just a driver, i would stick with the 6 cly.
 
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I know of a shop around here that's good but it's a good 2hrs from you. Look up newcomer racing and talk to Keith if you don't mind a lil drive.


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AMC 360!
 
Ive owned CJ7/CJ5s with:
350 sbc
AMC 304 (3)
AMC 360 (2)
OG carb 302
5.0 FI from a fox
and I think 4 or 5 with I6s

My favorites for a street driver would be the I6 followed by the 302 followed by the sbc...with either of the AMC s being last.

I dont have specs, but the AMC v8s seemed much heavier which upset the manners of the front end...these things really have small spring areas. A nose heavy front end really takes a lot of the fun a way....but there is something to be said about a stump puller that will jump a tall boy.

I think in either case you will be burning new frame side motor mounts in. And Im pretty sure and AMC 360 and a sbf are gonna require a different bell housing at least.
 
89wrangler said:
I have done both the 350 and built a 360. ( pics in my gallery) Can't say on the ford.I can say for the money, I would would go with a 5.3 or 6.0. you will be more satisified in the long run for not much more if any money.
***edit*** I just looked at your build. Very nice by the way. What are your plans with the rig. If it is just a driver, i would stick with the 6 cly.
Click to expand...


Thanks! I need less options not more :eek: All kidding aside, I do appreciate the ideas. I'll continue to read about other options. After all the work I have in this (and will have), I doubt it will ever see hard use. Maybe something more than a rig to take the kids for ice cream but not gonna see it on Kodac rock, that is for certain. I hear ya on the 6 cyl, but I want to go through the process of swapping if for nothing more than to learn. This project is a great outlet for other stresses of work/life.


Ron said:
Ive owned CJ7/CJ5s with:
350 sbc
AMC 304 (3)
AMC 360 (2)
OG carb 302
5.0 FI from a fox
and I think 4 or 5 with I6s

My favorites for a street driver would be the I6 followed by the 302 followed by the sbc...with either of the AMC s being last.

I dont have specs, but the AMC v8s seemed much heavier which upset the manners of the front end...these things really have small spring areas. A nose heavy front end really takes a lot of the fun a way....but there is something to be said about a stump puller that will jump a tall boy.

I think in either case you will be burning new frame side motor mounts in. And Im pretty sure and AMC 360 and a sbf are gonna require a different bell housing at least.
Click to expand...

Man, that's a whole ton of jeeps. I own 3 right now. Not sure how I have gotten to this point but you put me to shame with all those. Whatever I end up with, I want a V8 with side pipes. Hell, I may sit in the driveway and rev it just to hear it. I want my wife to know when I drive up!
 
someone real close to u who does real good work and is very knowledable on a ford is ronnie pope. he is a little pricey at times but he really knows his stuff .if doing it yourself and and need some machine shop work a-1 in mebane has always done good work for me
jeffrey
 
Nice Build, you are a very patient man
 
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