200 convert to points/condenser

[ldsparamedic]

I was given a 200 I6 motor from a T-bird to go into my 1968 F100. It has electric ignition. I was wondering if I could replace the distributor and convert the motor to points/condenser, like my 1971 F100 is. Any comments or suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[bubba22349]

Sure just look for a 1968 to 73 Ford / Mercury 200 point distributor will slide right in. But it is also very easy to just hook up the electronic distributor and will run so much better.

 

[Frankenstang]

As to the ignition, sure it can be done as bubba mentioned, but if I were going back to points I'd probably combine it with a capacitive discharge system. The life of the points would increase 'significantly'. Combine that with something like a mallory dual point and you'd could 'approach' the 'maintenance free' operation of electronic (okay, no such thing as 'maintenance free'...but you probably catch my meaning ).

Sidebar: Members have often referenced gofastforless.com for various ideas on ignition sytem/combinations.

There's alot to be said for the dreadnaught performance of mechanical points...makes me miss my old mallory dual point...given the 'dual point', and 'former'** quality of mallory points themselves (which I easily turned 30k on without adjustment) combined with capacitive system, and I wouldn't be surprised if you could run those points over 50k w/o skipping a beat and with performance that could rival electronic if tuned&curved right.

My switch from just regular dual points to electronic/unilite with capacitive discharge was in many ways under-whelming initially...but that has a good deal to do with quality of parts and tune on the old points system I was running. Good luck

EDIT: But as for a "200" in a '68 F100...I'd have to say :thumbdown: no intense offended


**'former' quality - cause I'm not sure I like what Prestolite had done with the brand so far

 

[Asa]

I was given a 200 I6 motor from a T-bird to go into my 1968 F100.

I do hope you're mistaken about a couple things
The 200ci I6 is going to be way too weak to properly power a truck, and if it's a '60s era T-bird, it should have been a 240 at least (although a fox body t-bird might have the 200)



BTW - great post Franken

 

[chad]

Welcome to the forum and site! Hope yer stay is pleasant, informative, safe and productive...
Sorry U got a thumbs down, we usually keep frankie under raps till the werwolf gets out, but U No, it's late...Friday nite... fresh new blood...
as U can tell he knows his stuff

What motor is in the '71? What is the planned application for the '68?

 

[Frankenstang]

Sorry U got a thumbs down, we usually keep frankie under raps till the werwolf gets out

Good one chad...yeah, really did'nt intend that to come across as a ‘flippant’ response…should have qualified it as Asa did…

The 200ci I6 is going to be way too weak to properly power a truck

x2 240/300 is a much, much better choice

BTW – Welcome to The Forum ldsparamedic, and good to see you back around Evan (look forward to hearing the updates on Susie)

 

[ldsparamedic]

No offense taken or implied from franken or anyone. The original motor had blown shortly after it was purchased by the previous owner. He was given a "working" 351 out of an econoline van. He was told the motor was just pulled from a van that had been driven. I traded a glock for it as the body is in perfect condition with only a piece of chrome dented. The previous owner never installed the 351 and just let it sit. I let is sit for a few months while finishing other projects. I finally got around to it last week. When I pulled the dipstick, surprise, no oil. What came out the plug was not fit to be called oil. I was looking for an inline 6 since my 71 F100 has a 240.

My landlord gave me the 200 motor with tranny for a straight trade for the 351 and its tranny. I looked up on wiki (cringe) and the t-bird did come with the 200 in 80-82, which is the correct year.

I agree the 200 is probably gonna be underpowered, but the truck will be a daily driver for now and not be hauling anything. I'm still looking around for a 300 for it.

I did get the electronic ignition box off the firewall so I may as well hook it up for now, since I'm not gonna keep this motor for ever.

I appreciate the comments and suggestions. I have thick skin so don't worry about offending me, just don't tease me for owning a suburban!

 

[bmbm40]

F100 is a real nice ride from that era. Will the 200 attach to the trans in that truck?

 

[chad]

Just wanted to show boat. Every 1 here is a blast.

The choice of 300/4.9 would B incredible & I 4got re it as 1 of our 'family". "The gasser that's a diesel"!
Hope U go w/it & might B fun w/the 200- till then. Wish the 300 (w/efi) would easily fit into my bronk! 4.1 will do fine tho.

Thanks 4 the opportunity to comment...

 

[Lazy JW]

I was given a 200 I6 motor from a T-bird to go into my 1968 F100...

Methinks you have your work cut out for you. That "free" engine will be a LOT of hassle just getting it installed; the ignition will be the least of your worries. Sounds like a lot of work to obtain 50% decrease in torque.
Hope it works out for you,
Joe