What engine came in a 1966 Ford F100?
The 1966 Ford F-100 did not come with a single, universal engine. Buyers could choose from several powerplants, with the most common options being a 289-cubic-inch V8 and a capable inline-six, plus larger V8s on heavier-duty configurations.
Engine options for the 1966 F-100
The following powerplants were typically offered across the 1966 F-100 lineup, with availability varying by trim, cab configuration, and market.
- Inline-six engines (the six-cylinder family used in mid-1960s F-Series trucks, valued for durability and torque).
- 289 cubic-inch V8 (a popular small-block V8 that balanced performance with economy).
- Big-block V8 options for heavy-duty models (providing higher power and torque for payloads and towing).
Exact engine availability could vary by model and production date. The engine code on a given truck can be verified via the VIN, fender tag, or the original build sheet.
How to verify the exact engine for a specific 1966 F-100
To determine the precise engine that a particular 1966 F-100 came with, you can:
- Inspect the engine block casting numbers and identification stamps on the engine itself.
- Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the build sheet or door tag for the engine code.
- Consult original dealer brochures or Ford factory data for the year and model, noting regional option differences.
Determining the exact engine helps with maintenance, parts, and restoring authenticity, and it’s best confirmed through primary documentation or an authenticated engine code.
Summary
In 1966, the Ford F-100 offered multiple engine choices rather than a single option. The lineup commonly included a 289-cubic-inch V8, a robust inline-six, and larger V8s for heavier-duty configurations. Verifying the engine requires checking the vehicle’s VIN/build sheet or original documentation for the exact specification.
What engine does a Ford F100 have?
The F-100 was offered with the gasoline-powered Y-Block 272 V8 and the Lima OHC 2.3L inline-four in both gasoline and dedicated ethanol versions. It was only available in a single cab, short box body style, and 2-wheel drive. The F-100 was discontinued in 1985. The F-1000 was produced since 1979 until 1992.
How much is a 1966 Ford F100 worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $17,433 for a 1966 Ford F-100 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec.
What Ford engine to stay away from?
Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating.
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates
- 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures.
- 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues.
- 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks.
This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines
- 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage.
- 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks.
- 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures.
- 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans.
You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025
What engine does a 1966 Ford F100 have?
Powertrain
| Engine | Model Years | Power |
|---|---|---|
| 240 CID Straight-6 | 1965–66 | 150 hp (112 kW) |
| 300 CID Straight-6 | 1965–66 | 170 hp (127 kW) |
| 289 CID Windsor V8 (Mexico only) | 1965–66 | 160 hp (119 kW) |
| 352 CID FE V8 | 1964–66 | 208 hp (155 kW) |
