200 or a 250?

[Anonymous]

I have 65 Ranchero that started life as a 170 w/3 on the tree. A PO installed a 170 and auto from a 170 ??. I am assuming the tranny is a C-4 but not sure. The 170 is very tired and have noticed the posts on the 200 as a direct swap and some confusion on the 250 swap. Noting the difference in size, will a 250 fit with my combo currently installed or should I just go with the 200? I could really use the extra hp from a 250 as my wife uses the 'Chero for feed store runs for hay/grain etc.

For the 250, I saw where I should use stock frame mounts to Mavrick engine mounts? My engine is a top start, so is this something I should get in the 250 - if so what years? A local yard as 3 Fairmonts and 2 70-71 Mavricks currently so which will be best to grab the engine/stuff from?

thanks

Bill F

 

[CZLN6]

Howdy Bill:

The 200 upgrade is really easy- as close to a direct swap as is possible. You will be amazed and love the increased performance of the later 200. Be sure to get a complete engine package, from fan to driveshaft and air cleaner nut to oil pan. Be sure to get all of the ignition components, including the module mounted on the inner fender.

Compare your 170 oil pan configuration to the late model. If needed the pan and pickup will swap.

Another area to check closely is the front fan and pulley assembly. If you have radiator clearance problems you may have to use an earlier, short shaft water pump. Do yourself a favor and replace the water pump and hoses while it's apart. You'd be wise to pull the radiator and have it rebuilt and cored in prep for the engine.

Your early 3 speed auto should bolt up to the late 200, but you may want to use the later auto trans with the engine, as a package.

The 250 is a good upgrade, but requires more adapting and fabrication. It also has some factory shortcomings that can be problematic- but not insurmountable. The early '70s engines will not have electronic ignition. All 250s have low mount starters. Some '80s 200 also have low mount starters so check 1st.

The Fairmonts will likely have a Holley #1946 carb that can be a challenge. It can be replaced for another upgrade.

That's my two cents, for what it's worth.

Adios, David

 

[Anonymous]

yeah I kinda forgot how to spell in the top post. the "replacement" engine/tranny were out of a 1970 ?? at least thats the production decal on the engine anyway meats 1970 specs

Bill

 

[Anonymous]

The Fairmonts will likely have a Holley #1946 carb that can be a challenge. It can be replaced for another upgrade.

The one on my 200 in my Mustang runs beautifully, but I did do some mods to it while it was apart, though.