What engine is in a 1964 F-250?

The 1964 F-250 did not have a single engine option; it offered multiple choices, with the most common being a 240-cubic-inch inline-six or a 289-cubic-inch V8.

In addition, Ford supplied larger FE-series V8s on some configurations, and engine availability depended on trim, cab, and market. To determine the exact engine for a particular truck, you’ll need to check the engine code, data plate, or VIN.

Engine options in 1964 F-250

The following options were commonly available in 1964 F-250 pickups; availability varied by trim level, cab configuration, and regional market.

• 240 cubic inch inline-six engine (I6) — a durable, economical option favored for work duties.


• 289 cubic inch V8 — Ford’s small-block V8, a popular balance of power and reliability for heavier use.


• FE-family V8 options — larger displacement V8s used in some configurations, typically in heavier-duty builds or specific markets.

Note: The exact engine depends on the individual truck’s configuration. Engine code, data plate markings, and the VIN can be cross-referenced to confirm the original powertrain.

How to identify the exact engine in your 1964 F-250

Use these steps to verify the engine in a vintage pickup.

• Locate the engine code stamped on the engine block or nearby components and match it to a 1964 Ford engine code reference for displacement and family.


• Check the vehicle’s data plate (usually on the door jamb or firewall) for powertrain information or a listed engine code.


• Decode the VIN and cross-reference with Ford’s historical powertrain catalogs or trusted registries to confirm the original engine for that build.

With the correct engine identification, you can match parts, plan restorations, and assess value with greater accuracy.

Summary

For a 1964 Ford F-250, there wasn’t a single engine choice. Most trucks offered a 240 cubic inch inline-six or a 289 cubic inch V8, with larger FE-series V8 options available on certain configurations. To confirm the exact engine on a given truck, inspect the engine code, data plate, and VIN, or consult Ford’s powertrain records for that exact build.

Which F-250 to stay away from?

You should generally avoid the 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017 Ford F-250 models due to common issues like the "death wobble," transmission problems, and other electrical and brake failures. Other models to approach with caution include the 2003-2007 F-250 with the 6.0L Power Stroke engine due to potential engine problems, and the 2008-2010 F-250 with the 6.4L engine, which has known EGR cooler issues. 
Model years to avoid

• 2006: Known for stalling, power steering loss, and brake issues, along with the death wobble. 
• 2008: Has serious brake problems and the death wobble. 
• 2011: Often experiences transmission issues, rough shifting, and the death wobble. 
• 2017: Plagued by the "death wobble" and other suspension/steering problems. 
• 2017-2019: Specifically mentioned as being susceptible to the "death wobble". 
• 2003-2007 (with 6.0L Power Stroke engine): Prone to head gasket and oil cooler failures in stock form. 
• 2008-2010 (with 6.4L Power Stroke engine): Has common EGR cooler failures that can lead to coolant loss and overheating. 

General issues to be aware of

• Death Wobble: This is a recurring problem in several model years, especially 2008, 2011, and 2017, and is related to suspension and steering components. 
• Transmission Problems: Rough shifting and unexpected gear changes have been reported in certain years, notably 2011. 
• Engine Issues: Specific diesel engines have known problems. The 6.0L and 6.4L engines are especially notorious for requiring significant maintenance or bulletproofing to be reliable. 
• Brake Failures: Some models have reported brake problems, including sudden failure and issues with the brake booster. 

What truck had the Ford 300 inline 6?

The Ford 300 inline-six engine was used in many Ford trucks, including the F-Series (F-100, F-150, F-250, F-350, and F-600) from 1965 to 1996, as well as in the Bronco from 1980 to 1996, and E-Series vans from 1968 to 1996. Its reputation for durability and torque made it a popular choice for heavy-duty applications.
 
This video explains the Ford 300 inline-six engine's history and features: 52sWhat it’s likeYouTube · Jan 30, 2025
Ford Trucks

• F-Series: The 300 was a staple in the F-Series lineup, appearing in models from the F-100 up to the F-350 and even the F-600. 
• Bronco: This engine was also available in the Ford Bronco from 1980 to 1996. 

You can watch this video to see a 1966 Ford F-100 with a 300 cubic inch inline-six engine: 37sHagertyYouTube · Apr 28, 2025
Other Ford Vehicles and Applications

• E-Series vans: The 300 was a common option in Ford's E-Series vans, including the E-100 through E-350, from 1968 to 1996. 
• Industrial/Agricultural: Its durability and torque made it a workhorse in other applications as well, such as in tractors, irrigation pumps, and industrial equipment. 

This video demonstrates the performance of a turbocharged Ford 300 inline-six engine: 16sEngine PowerYouTube · Aug 22, 2021

Was the 352 Ford engine a good engine?

Yes, the Ford 352 is generally considered a good, reliable, and strong engine, especially as a member of the versatile Ford FE family. It is a durable and capable engine that can be modified for high performance, with many parts interchangeable with other FE engines like the 390. 
Strengths of the 352 engine

• Reliable and durable: The 352 is known for being a resilient engine with good longevity, capable of handling heavy-duty work. 
• Strong torque: As a member of the FE series, it is a good torque producer, making it suitable for trucks and other applications that require pulling power. 
• Versatile platform: It's part of the FE engine family, meaning it can accept parts and upgrades from other FE engines, allowing for extensive modifications to increase horsepower. 
• High-performance potential: With the right modifications, such as a four-barrel carburetor, headers, and a different camshaft, the 352 can be built to produce over 300 horsepower. 
• Historical performance: The 352 was originally offered in performance applications like police interceptors, and a high-performance version was available with a solid lifter camshaft and higher compression, notes Wikipedia. 

Potential considerations

• Weight: The 352 is a heavy engine, weighing around 650-680 pounds, which can be a factor in some builds, says Facebook. 
• Fuel efficiency: Like many large, older V8 engines, it is not known for its fuel efficiency. 
• Identification: In some cases, identifying a 352 can be difficult because the block casting number is often stamped on other FE engines as well, explains Red Power Magazine. 

What engine is in a 1964 F-250?

ENGINE: STANDARD: Six-cylinder O.H.V. 3.625" bore, 3.60" stroke. Displacement, 223 cu.
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