272 Ford Engine

DougnDog · Jan 3, 2008

I have a question for you Ford guys. I'am changeing out a engine for a friend installing a Cummining diesel in a 54 Ford 2 ton flat bed. Takeing out a 272 cu in Ford Engine. it only has 4,000 mi on a complete rebuild,my question is does it have any value as a period hot rod engine. the water pump and pully is the same style as a flathead and it has a externail oil pump. it looks pretty cool

. I'am putting a chevy 250 six in my roadster pickup in hopes of GOOD gas milage, but that is in question. this engine has been offered to me for free.

. if in fact my 250 does not get killer gas milage,(as I hope) what would you guys's opinion be on this engine. Thanks Doug

cycledog · Jan 3, 2008

I believe Ford used 272's up till the mid to late 60's in pickups. There are some around that are into Y blocks but not many. Speed parts are not just lying around for these although can be had if you search.

The Y block came in various sizes starting with the 239 overhead in 52 or 3. The weak spot is the oil passages to the heads. If not enlarged or an overhead oiler system installed the rockers will be starved for oil after a period of time, other than that they are reliable.

If horse power is not a priority this could make for a good reliable engine for someone, if not for you. Besides the price is right.

rustywrench · Jan 3, 2008

any running engine, especially an old v-8 with 4k on the clock is worth getting, especially for free. if you dont end up using it in your own projects, one of your buds will. besides you'll probably end up putting it in your rod. pete

Bonehead · Jan 3, 2008

I have a 292 in mine, and truth be told, I stuck it in there because I had it laying around. The original plan was to run a 460 in the Bonehead Truck.
I have had so much fun with the Y block I can't bring myself to change it out. It runs strong and sounds great. Mine burns alot of gas cause I keep my foot down the carbs, but I think they are generally fairly good on gas.
As it turns out there are quite a few performance parts out there, and even a forum on just Y blocks. The Y block is a favorite of alot of Ford guys. And the biggest problem is the oiling problem mentioned above. I have had old guys at shows tell me how they got around the problems on their old trucks and cars. I say snag it!