Motor Options for a 1970 Ford F600

[MikePhua]

The 1970 Ford F600, part of Ford's medium-duty truck lineup, is known for its rugged durability and versatility, making it a popular choice for a wide range of industries, from agriculture to construction. Over the years, many F600 owners have sought to upgrade or replace the engine to improve performance or accommodate specific requirements. In this article, we will explore the various motor options available for the 1970 Ford F600, focusing on engine compatibility, potential upgrades, and tips for selecting the best engine for your needs.
Overview of the 1970 Ford F600
The Ford F600 is a member of the F-Series, which has been a staple in Ford's truck lineup for decades. The 1970 model was designed primarily for medium-duty applications, featuring a robust chassis and enough payload capacity to carry heavy loads. While the F600 is often used for hauling large volumes of material, it also serves as a versatile workhorse for a variety of jobs, including delivery, utility work, and more.
The original F600 typically came with a range of gasoline and diesel engine options, depending on the specific configuration and the buyer's needs. These included inline-six engines, V8s, and optional diesel powerplants, giving owners a degree of flexibility when selecting their trucks. However, as the years passed and the F600 saw limited production compared to other F-series trucks, owners began looking for ways to modernize their vehicles, especially in terms of engine performance.
Original Engine Options for the 1970 Ford F600
When first manufactured, the 1970 Ford F600 was offered with a few key engine choices, which varied depending on the truck's intended use and specific configurations. Here are the original engine options available for the F600:

• 240 cubic inch Inline-6 Engine: This was one of the standard engine options for the F600. Known for its reliability and simplicity, the 240ci inline-six provided moderate horsepower and torque suitable for light to medium-duty tasks. However, for heavy hauling or applications that required more power, this engine was often considered underpowered.
  
• 330 cubic inch V8 Engine: The 330ci V8 was a significant upgrade over the inline-six. Offering more power, the V8 engine provided better performance for those needing to carry heavier loads or haul for extended periods. This engine was also relatively easy to maintain due to the availability of parts.
  
• 360 cubic inch V8 Engine: A more powerful version of the V8 engine, the 360ci V8 offered even more torque and horsepower. This engine was ideal for heavy-duty tasks and provided greater towing capabilities, which made it a preferred choice for those who needed a workhorse capable of enduring tough conditions.
  
• Diesel Options: While less common, diesel engine options were available for those who needed improved fuel efficiency and greater towing capacity. Diesel engines were especially favored by commercial fleet owners and those who operated the F600 in rural areas where long trips were common.
  

Upgrading the Engine in the 1970 Ford F600
As many F600s have aged, owners have increasingly sought to upgrade their engines for better performance, efficiency, or emissions standards. Modernizing the engine allows the F600 to keep up with today's demands while maintaining its classic, durable structure.
Common Engine Upgrades
If you're looking to upgrade your 1970 Ford F600, several modern engine options can provide the power and efficiency needed for the job. These upgrades are typically designed to fit within the truck's frame, although modifications to the engine mounts, transmission, and exhaust systems might be necessary.

• Ford 460 V8: A popular upgrade option, the Ford 460 V8 engine is a large-block V8 that offers significantly more power and torque than the original engines in the F600. With 460 cubic inches of displacement, the 460 V8 produces more than 200 horsepower and can handle heavy-duty workloads with ease. It's an excellent option for those who need both towing capacity and reliability.
  
• Ford 351 Cleveland or Windsor V8: If you're looking for a more modern V8 engine that still maintains a similar size to the original 360ci V8, the Ford 351 series engines are an excellent choice. These engines offer better fuel efficiency, improved emissions control, and more refined power delivery than older engines while still providing ample power for medium-duty work.
  
• Cummins 6BT Diesel: The Cummins 6BT 5.9L turbocharged diesel engine is a popular upgrade for those looking to switch from gasoline to diesel for better fuel economy and greater torque. This engine is widely regarded for its reliability and can handle larger payloads more efficiently. It is commonly used in older trucks for engine swaps, as it fits well into the F600's engine bay with some modifications.
  
• Ford Powerstroke Diesel Engines: For those who prefer a more modern diesel option, swapping in a Ford Powerstroke diesel engine provides not only the reliability of the Cummins engine but also advanced fuel injection technology, better emissions control, and a stronger overall powertrain.
  

Considerations When Upgrading the Engine
Before making any upgrades, it's essential to consider the following factors:

• Engine Mount Compatibility: When upgrading to a larger or different engine, it is important to verify that the new motor will fit into the existing engine bay. Modifications to the engine mounts and possibly the transmission may be necessary.
  
• Transmission Compatibility: The F600's original transmission may not always be compatible with a more powerful engine, particularly when swapping from gasoline to diesel. If a stronger transmission is needed, you may need to opt for a more robust gearbox, such as a Ford ZF or an Allison automatic transmission.
  
• Cooling System: The original cooling system may need to be upgraded if you're installing a larger engine. Modern engines often produce more heat, requiring a larger radiator and better cooling fans to keep the engine running at optimal temperatures.
  
• Fuel System Modifications: If you opt for a diesel engine upgrade, the fuel system may also need modification to handle the higher pressures associated with diesel fuel. This includes installing a fuel tank designed for diesel, new fuel lines, and possibly upgrading the fuel filter system.
  
• Emissions and Compliance: While upgrading an older truck engine, ensure that your chosen engine complies with local emissions standards, especially if the truck is used in urban areas. Newer diesel engines tend to have more stringent emissions systems than older models, but they can often meet EPA standards with some modifications.
  

Choosing the Right Motor for Your Needs
Choosing the right engine for your 1970 Ford F600 depends on several factors, including:

• Intended Use: If you're using the truck for light to medium-duty hauling, a V8 or diesel engine upgrade may provide the performance you're looking for. For heavy-duty tasks, larger engines like the Ford 460 V8 or a diesel swap may be necessary.
  
• Budget: Upgrading an engine can be a costly endeavor, especially when factoring in parts, labor, and potential transmission or cooling system upgrades. Set a realistic budget for the entire project, including potential hidden costs.
  
• Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines generally offer better fuel efficiency than gasoline engines, especially on long hauls. If fuel savings are a priority for you, switching to diesel may be a good investment in the long run.
  
• Parts Availability and Maintenance: Choose an engine with readily available parts and a reputation for reliability. Engines like the Ford 460 V8 or Cummins 6BT have a long history of being used in trucks and are known for their durability, which can save you money on repairs over time.
  

Conclusion
The 1970 Ford F600 remains a popular and durable vehicle for a variety of industries. Whether you're restoring an old workhorse or upgrading the engine to meet new performance demands, there are a wide range of engine options available. From the original V8 and diesel options to modern upgrades like the Ford 460 V8 or Cummins 6BT diesel, there’s an engine to suit every need.
Choosing the right motor involves assessing your truck’s intended use, your budget, and the modifications necessary to integrate the new engine. With careful planning and the right engine selection, the F600 can continue to be a reliable and efficient machine for years to come, offering both power and versatility on the job site.