1974 F engine

[mxfj40]

Is the 74 F engine the best of the F engines? I heard they have a better oil system. I have a 71 FJ40 and I am thinking about a rebuild soon. Should I rebuild my 71 motor or try to find a 74 to rebuild? Thanks in advance for any help given.

Sorry about jumping in on the paint thread. Im a rook.

 

[CRZRJames]

I have a '74 F engine, and it's true that it is the most advanced F engine with the upgraded oiling system. I have rebuilt mine once before and am contemplating doing it again but will probably opt for a 2F due to it's greater displacement. If you are considering buying a used engine and rebuilding it, give some thought to a 2F for the same reason. I think that your ancillary devices will bolt up just fine and you will have a more powerful engine due to the greater displacement. Also, parts are more readily available for the 2F. I'd be interested to know (from one of the gearheads that hang around these parts) if there are any reasons not to upgrade to a 2F such as interchangeability of parts, mismatch of bolt holes for ancillary parts, etc.
James

 

[JohnL]

The 74 F engines went through an evolution as the model year progressed, I believe. My Jan 74 has the 2F oil filter location and heater/coolant lines but F heads.

I am not sure of the displacement and have not had the engine apart, but I am very satisfied with its longevity (>300K miles). Compressions tests say its ALMOST time for a rebuild. I believe it had one ~150K by the records I have from the PO.

 

[Klunky Chris]

my built 74 is a powerhouse!
but........ I spent a ton on the rebuild and it's overbored and approx 10.5 - 1 compression.

If you are going to get a used engine, go for a 2F. later model years are better as small improvements were made throughout the years.
2F is a better engine.

 

[Pighead]

The last of the F engines are the best of the F engines. I built my original 12/'74 engine and abused it for 10 or 12 years. Never a problem. But my built 2F is better. If you just gotta have an F, get the late F. But a 2F should be no harder to find and is a better candidate for a buildup. But keep the late F head for your 2F.

 

[dd113]

I am a big F fan and the 74/75F is the best. If you have a cheap option get a 2F but it is not all that big of a deal over a 74/75 F. Later mod 2F is cool with accessories.

 

[labartonmd]

I am rebuilding my 73 F motor next year. Is there a way to modify the head to update the oiling to match the 74/75 F head? In what ways were the later heads improved?