The Ford Barn - View Single Post - Is it normal to build an engine test stand?

GB SISSON · 01-01-2021, 11:43 PM

I made one years ago. I sell a few used engines, but I made it for my own use. I overhaul engines for my own trucks. Machine shops are two trips to the mainland and a bunch of money. I have the orange Henry Ford authorized 1947 engine service manual. It is meant for ford service depts. It clearly states the wear limits which are acceptable for getting a ford back on the road in reliable condition, while not in NEW condition. That's good enough for me. Bust out the ridge reamer, cylinder hone, rings, valve job, new bearings if needed (plastigage is your modern friend) and put it on the stand. If there is a leaking head gasket, oil pan, bad cylinder (rare), low oil pressure (also rare), timing, carb problem......then it is SO easily repaired out of the truck. I took my last block to a machine shop 21 years ago. For me it's just a hobby and I have a great time driving around in my overhauled fords.

01-01-2021, 11:43 PM	#7
GB SISSON Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Orcas Island Washington Posts: 5,881	Re: Is it normal to build an engine test stand? I made one years ago. I sell a few used engines, but I made it for my own use. I overhaul engines for my own trucks. Machine shops are two trips to the mainland and a bunch of money. I have the orange Henry Ford authorized 1947 engine service manual. It is meant for ford service depts. It clearly states the wear limits which are acceptable for getting a ford back on the road in reliable condition, while not in NEW condition. That's good enough for me. Bust out the ridge reamer, cylinder hone, rings, valve job, new bearings if needed (plastigage is your modern friend) and put it on the stand. If there is a leaking head gasket, oil pan, bad cylinder (rare), low oil pressure (also rare), timing, carb problem......then it is SO easily repaired out of the truck. I took my last block to a machine shop 21 years ago. For me it's just a hobby and I have a great time driving around in my overhauled fords. __________________ Owner/Operator of 'Jailbar Ranch' on the side of Mt. Pickett. Current stable consists of 1946 1/2 ton pickup turned woodie wagon with FH V8, 1946 Tonner Pickup with 226 H six, 1979 Toyota landcruiser wagon, now wearing 1947 Ford Jailbar sheet metal. 'Rusty ol' floorboards, hot on their feet' (Alan Jackson) Last edited by GB SISSON; 01-01-2021 at 11:50 PM.