The Ford Barn

Hoodooman · 08-25-2025, 01:27 PM

Hi all,
I'm pretty sure I know the answer here especially on a forum such as this. Nevertheless, I'll ask for input. I have a very original, very rust-free 52 4 door customline. She's a driver quality car. Lots of scratches, dents, original interior, etc. etc. Anyhow, the 8ba is finally due for replacement. Smokes, down on power, uses lots of oil, and finally, broke a valve the other day. Looks to be standard bore, all original block. The car is only worth a few thousand when it was running. Is it REALLY worth putting $5-8K into rebuilding the engine? Only to still have a $3500 car? Nothing sentimental about the car. The closest machine shop with flathead experience is about 4 hours away. I won't dare say what alternatives I'm considering, but simply ask for your thoughts.

This is all to say, IF the block isn't cracked and is actually worth a rebuild.

I appreciate it!

08-25-2025, 01:27 PM	#1
Hoodooman Member Join Date: Nov 2024 Location: Blue Ridge Mountains Posts: 49	8ba Rebuild - worth the cost? Hi all, I'm pretty sure I know the answer here especially on a forum such as this. Nevertheless, I'll ask for input. I have a very original, very rust-free 52 4 door customline. She's a driver quality car. Lots of scratches, dents, original interior, etc. etc. Anyhow, the 8ba is finally due for replacement. Smokes, down on power, uses lots of oil, and finally, broke a valve the other day. Looks to be standard bore, all original block. The car is only worth a few thousand when it was running. Is it REALLY worth putting $5-8K into rebuilding the engine? Only to still have a $3500 car? Nothing sentimental about the car. The closest machine shop with flathead experience is about 4 hours away. I won't dare say what alternatives I'm considering, but simply ask for your thoughts. This is all to say, IF the block isn't cracked and is actually worth a rebuild. I appreciate it! __________________ 52 Ford Customline Fordor