Just picked up an old Ford

As the subject reads, I did just pick up a old Ford. I have noticed that as with my ATVs and many other things, that often the best resource for information, is to find a forum full of people who are passionate about the one thing you need information regarding.. in this case.. an old Ford!

I recently purchased an 84 F150 that a group of kids were going to make into a drag truck. They had pulled the leaf springs out, and dropped in a 302 and transmission from what I believe to be an 85 mustang GT. As each of the kids in this group got older and started having kids, the project went to the back burner, and eventually was sold to me. The truck did set for quite sometime, but was started on occasion.

It has been nothing short of a nightmare getting this truck not only street legal, but diagnosing problems, not knowing what exactly I have. From what I can see, it is in fact a 302, equipped with a Holley 4-inch rise aluminum intake, and a Holley 600 CFM carb.

I am at this time combating two major problems...

1) There is an annoying "lifter sounding" tick coming from the engine. I am not sure if this is an exhaust leak, or a lifter tick. It does coincide with RPMs, but tends to get harder to hear at higher RPMs. I have removed the valve covers to see if maybe a rocker arm was just too loose, but all of the rockers were very tight, none of them had the slightest amount of play. Could I have solid lift?

2) After driving the truck roughly 40 miles, it starts to spit and gag like it is running out of gas. I pull over, it idles fine, it is getting gas.. nothing seems to be wrong. I then take off back down the highway, get a mile, and it starts doing the same thing. I can pump the gas, but get nothing. It just continues to spit and gag. It seems like the longer I allow the truck to sit, the longer I am able to drive without this happening. The fuel pump is mechanical, but looks like the stock pump. I have installed a clear fuel filter near the carb (I couldnt find one in line ANYwhere). I can see some trash in the filter, but gas seems to still pass though fine. I have tried fuel additives, carb cleaner, to no avail. This problem has been very difficult to not only diagnose, but troubleshoot. Everything I try, I have to then drive the truck 40 miles to test. I have noticed an issue with my water hose. It is collapsing at higher RPMs. I plan to replace it, and the thermostat (just in case) this week. This however, I wouldnt think would be related to what seems to be a fuel delivery problem.


I think once the bugs are worked out, I will have a nice work truck/toy hauler. It has just been a bit frustrating getting it in good working condition. Any and all info, tips, or anything along those line would be GREATLY appreciated.  

Problem 2 When this happens pull over and take the gas cap off. Then take off again and see if this helps. I think the tank is not vented enough thanks to the kids. You may also hear a rush of air into the tank when you open the gas cap. If this helps you need to find where the vent is plugged or restricted. Start looking for the tank vent line and see if it is blocked off. There should be a line from the tank to the evap. canister that lets air vent the tank. This varies greatly from model to model but the general idea is the same. The fuel tank needs to be vented to eliminate a vacuum to build up in the tank.  When you remove the gas cap you will have vented the tank and it should run good after that.
Good Luck    

Thanks HB, I think you just solved a similar problem with my dad's truck.  

Welcome to the forums ob.