I have posted this on VMF then thought I would also like to post it here!
I have been restoring a K code fastback for about 5 years. It does not have its original motor. Throughout this time I have searched for numbers matching bits and pieces so that I could build one. I have now built up quite a number of parts, however the correctly numbered block and heads have eluded me. My car was built quite late in the 65 model year; about 22nd July. I have looked for heads and block built late June (F) or early July (G) but have never come across any on auction sites or in classifieds in the US. I live in Australia and have only come across one correctly dated 289 block which proved useless.
I am faced with the prospect of putting an ‘incorrect’ engine into the car with the hope, perhaps one day, of finding or building a correct HiPo engine, (unless by then it doesn’t matter as much).
I can obtain easily, locally, a crate engine: 5.0 litre 302, GT 40 heads etc, factory rebuilt by Ford Racing. These engines-and others- are sourced from the US and come out of vehicles such as Ford Explorers.
It would be great to hear from anyone who might have some advice or views about this to make my jump in mind-set a little easier. Thanks. Tim McCarthy.