Inline Six For My 64 Falcon?

[OregonMan78]

Currently my 64 has the traditional 170 inline six. I would like a little more power so I've been debating on whether to go to the 250 inline 6 or jump up to a small block V8. Would also like to update to an AOD trans. Seeing if anyone has compared performance and MPG's between the 250 and a 289 or 302? I would like to keep a more original appearance to the car. But just want to know how the 250 would perform compared to my 170 or a small block. I know modifications have to be made to get either to "bolt in" so I imagine the swap is about the same amount of work? Would I need to go to a larger 5 lug 9in rear end as I would for a V8? Any ideas would be appreciated. :thanks:

 

[ludwig]

You understand that the V8 much heavier than the six. This means that you will have to put in heavier front suspension parts if you go that direction.

You should get the latest edition of the Ford Falcon Performance Handbook. This will tell you what all you can do with your existing engine or which direction you can go with a larger block: 200 or 250. The 250 is also heavier and needs some special parts. The authors indicate what they would be.

 

[MPGmustang]

the 6cyl is more for low rpm torque, which translates to mpg on freeway with AOD. I think you would be really happy with the 250/AOD combo, the 289 would be 'easier' as it's been done MANY times before, I only count a handful of the AOD/250 guys.

in th end it's what you want it for, the 250 would give better highway mpg and street mpg would be close to the the 289, the 39ci difference IMO won't be noticed UNLESS you mod 289 more than stock. but you'll have to improve the 250 past stock to come close to the 289.

250:
mpg (18-25)
decent power
low rpm's everywhere
>$2k

289:
lower mpg (15-18)
great power
mid range rpm's
<$2k

I say 2k to account for everthing, even the smaller things that might nickel and dime ya. both will be close to the same price, IF conservative!

something to consider, the 250 WP is longer, and the falcon's are shorter engine bay's than mustangs, your electric fan will have to go infront of the radiator. the mechanical fan will probably not even fit.

the reason to stay with the 6cyl is it looks more stock and it's just different which rocks and just looks cooler!

 

[bmbm40]

If you want just a bit more power and the original look a good running 77-80 used 200 is a great low cost solution. Add the DSII and a larger one barrel carb and get a good boost. It will bolt right in. You could change your axle ratio or go to a slightly taller tire, not an od trans but helps on the highway plus cheaper and easier.
The 250/AOD would be real nice but way more work ,time and money. Is this a daily driver you plan to keep for awhile?
Definately get the Ford Six Cylinder Performance Manual.

 

[ludwig]

the 250 will also give you more transmission choices because it has the large transmission housing bolt pattern so you can get V8 transmissions to link straight up.

 

[OregonMan78]

Yeah this is going to be my daily driver. I'm definitely leaning more for the 250 AOD combo.

 

[powerband]

...I would like a little more power so I've been debating on whether to go to the 250 inline.. I know modifications have to be made to get either to "bolt in" .. Would I need to go to a larger 5 lug 9in rear end ? Any ideas would be appreciated. :thanks:

The Falcon Six Performance Handbook gives a good presentation of mods needed for 250 installs'. I run a 250/T5/8" in a '61. 'Not sure if accomodating for '64 is same but as mentioned, attention will be needed to cooling system and exhaust clearances due to additional height and length but are manageable with simple mods. The rear end popular for swapping is the 8" Maverick which used the 4 lug axles (earlier 8" usually were V8-5 lug). The 250 uses typical SBF from bellhouse, FW-FP, Clutch etc. A 250/OD tranny/8" setup allows for modern cruise speeds and with a high fun factor in the lower gears.

HAve Fun

 

[CobraSix]

Welcome first of all!

Don't want to be one of those search nazi's, but there are a lot of answers there that we are only glossing over in this reply.

As far as weight, a 302 compared to a 250 is actually not that much difference in weight. Especially once you factor in being able to source aluminum heads, intakes, etc for the 302. Most people compare the weights of the entire car. a stock 6 cylinder car is lighter by about 100-150 lbs compared to a 289/302 stock car. But, factor in upgrading transmission, rear end, etc, and the difference in weight is minimal.

There are many pro's and cons to either side, and only you can answer.

with a 250, with any power mods, you are likely going to need to upgrade the transmission and rear end. no need for a 9" rear, but an 8" will suffice fine for what a streetable 250 can put out.

For mileage, a 302 with a T5 behind it will pull 25+MPG on the highway in proper tune so long as it isn't crazy on gearing or modifications. About the same as I get on my modified 200. I can pull around 26-27 if I go easy on the gas and stay below 70.

If you want power without breaking the bank, V-8 is the way to go. Very few around here will argue that point. The reason most of us keep the 6 is because of doing something a little different. I'm pretty much the only modified 6 cylinder in our local show and shine groups. Occasionally I see a stock 6, but those are mostly concours trailer queens. But, I get a ton of looks and questions about the build because it's different. At this point, I can drop in a V8. Everything on the car is ready for it. Brakes, transmission, rear end, steering, suspension. I have a complete v8 ready car. however, the 200 stays. I may go to a 250 at some point.

Can I win races against new cars light to light? not really. But I can still have a lot of fun on the twisties, which the 6 does well in.

Definitely get the manual and hang out and see what people have done.

 

[MPGmustang]

For mileage, a 302 with a T5 behind it will pull 25+MPG on the highway in proper tune so long as it isn't crazy on gearing or modifications. About the same as I get on my modified 200. I can pull around 26-27 if I go easy on the gas and stay below 70.

Who stay's under 70 when traffic and speed limit are 75+

 

[Nashtooth]

Some do, some don't. In Utah, most don't.

 

[Anonymous]

I read more often than I post these days. My two bob's worth.
I spurned all new cars twelve months ago and now only drive my 71 2V 250 Falcon and an 65 A code fastback.
I love each for what it is. The Falcon with the 2V is rare and becoming rarer. Every man and his dog wants to replace a 6 with a V8. I for one would not. As much as I enjoy driving the 4V 289, the 2V sounds and looks different. When I display the car it is always the only 6 against the V8's. As a driver it feels and drives well. Torque is not much different to the A code.
Then there is the exhaust note. A twin system running off headers is a wonderful thing out of a non cross flow straight 6. Dunno why it just is.
Enjoy the 6 for what it is. Tickle it up a bit and you will have a grin from ear to ear. Put an 8 in it and it will be just another v8 conversion.

 

[rocklord]

Nicely said mkeily.

 

[woodbutcher]

AMEN.
Good luck.Have fun.Be safe.
Leo