250??

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone- I have a 1966 Econline PU that came with a 240 and I am torn between using the "big block" 6 or going to the 200/250 small block- I am looking for a engine combination that will give good mpg and be able to tow around 1500/1800 lbs on a 2 wheel trailer- any idea's about the small block engine would be appreaciated and any comments about the small/big block -
I forgot to say that Iwill be using a auto trans
thanks very much
rudger

 

[pedal2themetal45]

I personaly would stick with the 240 cu. not that a 200 or 250 can't handle the load but I thnk the 240 would not have to work as hard to move the load. and just work with the carb and timming for milage.
tim

 

[woodbutcher]

You could also step up to the 300 as the 240 and the 300 uses the same block.
Leo

 

[CZLN6]

Howdy Papa and all:

Any of the three can be made to work quite nicely. Buyt for my money, a torquey, long stroke 250 would be my choice, given your parameters. A 250 may come a little cheaper then a 300 BB because the 300s are recycled into pickups and trucks.

Set up right the 250 will get comparable mileage to a 200, is smaller and lighter than a 240/300, and has options for transmissions beyond the C4.

I'll be anxious to hear what you decide to do.

Adios, David

 

[woodbutcher]

Hi czln6,the only problem with going to the 250 would be having to fab up motor and tranny mounts.
Leo

 

[rbohm]

Hi czln6,the only problem with going to the 250 would be having to fab up motor and tranny mounts.
Leo

8) not really since the econoline came with the small six as standard, all he would have to do is find the engine crossmember for the small six. height wont be a problem either in this case.

that said however, i think i would also find a 300 to install, along with an AOD to get the fuel economy i was looking for.

 

[61Futura]

My first van was an early 69 Econoline with a 240 with 3 on the tree manual tranny. I still have fond memories of it. I would stick with the 240. The gas mileage is going to stay around 13 mpg because of the wind load. No engine change is going to make it any better. I had lots of power until I drove to the mountains of Colorado. I top ended at 45 going down interstate by Denver. Then going higher to the tree line, I had to keep it in 1st gear. The people behind me must have been upset. Other than that, it had all the power I needed.

Steve