need help with my 215

[Anonymous]

Ive got a 1953 F100 that I wanted to sell.. The truck had been restored but I seemed to have damaged engine....I was driving along and smelled radiator fluid...thought was guy in front of me and ignored (engine temp was cold- my first clue) Well soon found out it was me! OUCH!! I know, call me stupid. Anyway started doing research on engine and discoverd that I have a 215 ci block with a 223 head. The head had a 12volt sensor and my truck is still 6volt. So temp gauge didnt work. Well it leaks near firewall right between block and head....removed head and fount 2 helicoils put in new gasket....still leaked. Removed again and while I was torquing down one of bolts (to spec) snapped bolt!!! so walked away. Truck is fine in every respect except engine.....I need some advice what to do...
1- should I spend money and have motor fixed then sell?
2- Sell as is...and take a hit
3- Where can I find a rebuilt block or head if necessary?
4- If I do fix who can work on block or head to identify on problem
5- OR do I just start new..and turn into street rod or daily driver.
I was originally going to do but so many folks said that it looks too nice just to go ahead and tear apart. Perhaps someone wants it stock and perhaps I should just find a truck that fits my needs. Wife wants some of the more modern conviences (power steering, brakes. a/c) albeight she likes the look....So will get another one... I know Ive put alot on the table here....maybe I should just focus on the engine situation first.!

 

[addo]

I can't tell you what to do with the truck -that's a decision you'll have to arrive at! Just some thoughts on it...

215-262 series engines are certainly less common these days, but parts may be found and traditional repairs effected. Is the run-around this entails, part of the "fun" in owning an older car, or an inconvenience? Different answers for different people.

A resto-mod would probably not harm value unless the truck is a near-mint showpiece. Depending on how elaborate it were, the "same old, same old" injected 5 litre transplant would probably keep your hat in the ring if it's ever considered to onsell. Personally, I think swapping in a later six would be less cost effective if you later resold - but it would make a great, durable truck.

Selling as-is would involve a good degree of tyre kickers, until the right person came along and understood the situation. If you have no further real interest - but time to play the game - this could be for you.

Older trucks like yours are pretty rare outright, down here. It's hard not to say "Just keep it"!

Cheers, Adam.