I've recently picked up an 86 rwd standard cab with the 300 and a 4 speed manual transmission. It's had some work by others before I bought it and by me afterwards.

I'd like to upgrade it some (bigger power train, better brakes, etc), but I'm struggling to figure out how to ask the right questions when planning my path. Is there a good resource you can recommend?

I'm looking to make it peppier as a daily driver, and I don't plan on frequent/ever towing. I'm mechanically inclined and have done some light/moderate repairs (e.g. suspension replacements, brakes, oil, starters, etc...), but I don't have power train experience.

My long-term dream goal would be a stroked 351w with a 5 speed manual and a fuel systems with more than 1 barrel!

Any resources? Other advice?

 

My advice, keep the 300. It is more durable than any V8 the Ford offers and a good running 300 should offer plenty of acceleration.
I would look towards a newer F.I. F150 before I would take on a major modification on an 86 model.

 

Start on the long term dream right now
For performance consider a Coyote swap
Keeping it carbureted would sure be easier

 

Do you mean a newer FI engine, or the whole truck? I love the early 80s styling.

Would you do any upgrades to a 300? Maybe an Oppenheimer intake and a new bigger carb?

 

Any good sites or recommendations to read up on coyote swaps?

 

Just this site, google and a few other sites like FTE. Research Coyote swap, it seems everybody is doing it these days
Yes, to the intake and a bigger 2bbl carb and a turbo for now
They (Ford) did experiment in the late 70s and early eighties with a VVT 4.9
I doubt the Variable Valve Timing is doable but look into that just for your general knowledge
raski is right, the 300-6 will outlast us all

 

If I go this route, should I also be considering a stronger transmission, better ignition, anything else?

Want to do it right where I don't beef this up to find out I just broke that.

 

Your 4 speed should handle any torque the 300-6 will put out with a turbo IMO
The 5 speed not so much, you'll need to be careful
I am not sure if the stronger ZF 5 speed will go behind your 300-6
Someone on here knows

 

Thanks for all the help!