I am having the engine in my 1995 F-150 rebuilt as we speak ($3,300). BTW, it is a 351W. My question is, what are things that I MUST do while the engine is out, and what are things that I should do while the engine is out? It will be going back in the truck in a couple days so the more recommendations, the better. I may not have the money for all, or I may have already done/been planning to have done whatever you are suggesting. Please do not be upset if I don't answer back right away, I will try to monitor this thread as much as I can, but no promises. Thanks in advance for all your advice.

-Adam

 

this is probably obvious, but definitely replace every single gasket on that thing. you'll regret not doing that later on. bet its alot easier to get to most of them with the thing completely out.

 

for 3,300.00 it out to have some go fast goodies already...including aluminum heads...

 

Make absolutely sure that all the surfaces of the different parts mate very well and are sealed. My buddy went through hell with water and oil mixing due to sealing problems between heads and intake.
The biggest issue was overheating due to coolant losses internally (kind of like your engine getting a bleeding ulcer )
I think these issues might be a particularly prone to occur from shaving heads. I can't remember the details of the problem exactly but I certainly remember the hassles he went through... Water jackets and oil paths should never share a surface...

 

...and of course the one thing a lot of people over look:

New engine mounts and transmission mount.

 

Before going with new heads I would put a MAF conversion on if it doesn't already have mass air.

 

All the above issues have been addressed with the exception of the new motor mounts/tranny mounts. I overlooked that one, Thanks. It is 3,300 bucks because I am having the motor rebuilt by a very reputable engine builder here in town and I am paying a local shop to do all the rest of the work. With work, I really don't have the time to be doing all this work. However, FYI, if anyone needs a couple pages out of the "Actual Ford Dealerships Service Manuals", the ones the dealership mechanics use, I just bought a set and would be willing to scan a diagram or small project for you. The engine will be completely rebuilt, including decking the heads/rebuilding them. Thanks again for the replies, but more are still welcome.

-Adam
blaqhawk@gmail.com