350 conversion

[sessions]

I've got a 2f engine with 160k on it and am debating on rebuilding it or doing a 350 conversion.
I haven't done much research on it but am wondering what the cost comparison between a rebuild and conversion is and the benefits.
Thanks for your thoughts and advice

 

[dallen341]

why a rebuild so soon? 160k miles is nothing on the 2f

 

[sessions]

We are selling my wife's jeep and she is going to use the cruiser as a dd to haul the kids around.
Maybe not a complete rebuild but a good going thru to ease her mind about it being reliable etc
The engine dies when the clutch is engaged while approaching stops and has been running rough lately

 

[dbleon]

Run compression and do a leak down. It will tell you a lot about engine condition. As for running rough, more than likely its and issue with fuel delivery. Don't rebuild, its not worth it. Run it till death then swap a good used 2f or v8 your choice.

 

[sessions]

Yeah I'd like to keep the 2f in it. Haha kind of a newb tech. What's a leak down? I'm guessing vacuum?

 

[LCOwner]

Leak down is a compresion check of the cylinders. Sounds like you have a carb that me need rebuilding or at least adjuctment. Look for a reputable Cruiser mechanic in your area and see what he can do first.

 

[grasshopperNOmore]

Yeah I'd like to keep the 2f in it. Haha kind of a newb tech. What's a leak down? I'm guessing vacuum?

IIRC, A leakdown test is performed by pressuring individual cylinders with compressed air. You can then determine if you have a leaky valve, head gasket etc etc. A compression test is a very simple form of a leak down test and is a good start when trying to determine the condition of an engine. If a suspect cylinder is found, a leak down test would usually be needed to further diagnose the problem.

 

[stocksail]

on the topic of it being a DD for your most precious cargo. check the seatbelts.

there was a recall on some at one time and most seem to have dodgy engagement being 25+ years old.

maybe yours are different.

I don't trust mine.

 

[Elbert]

3-$5K if you can do most of the work yourself (V-8) swap.

 

[sessions]

Awesome! Thanks guys! Gives me a good place to start!
Seat belts are good and have the shoulder strap upgrade. Just gotta get all of them to fit!

 

[Corbet]

I agree with everyone else that is sounds like a fuel delivery issue.

Do a leak down anyway to determine the health of your 2F.

V8 swap can get as expensive as you want. I did one on my 60 years back and went cheap with a carb. I wished I would have gone at least TBI instead. Things like the exhaust, engine accessories, misc hardware can add up quick. So if you go down that road don't forget to budget well beyond the adapter, engine, and mounts.