What engine was in a 1978 F-250?
The 1978 Ford F-250 could be equipped with several engines, most commonly a 300 cubic inch inline-six or a range of V8s (360, 390, and larger big-blocks such as 429 or 460), depending on trim and configuration.
This article details the engine lineup for the 1978 F-250, how choices varied by model and body configuration, and how to identify the exact engine in a specific truck.
Engine options for the 1978 F-250
Below is a summary of the engines that were available across the 1978 F-250 lineup, from base models to heavy-duty configurations.
- 300 cu in Inline-6 (4.9 L) — the common base engine on many F-Series trucks, valued for reliability and torque at low RPMs.
- 360 cu in V8 (5.9 L) — a popular V8 upgrade offering solid performance and towing capability.
- 390 cu in V8 (6.4 L) — a larger displacement V8 option for more power, used in higher-trim or heavy-duty setups.
- 429 cu in V8 (7.0 L) — a big-block option available on certain heavy-duty configurations for substantial towing and payload needs.
- 460 cu in V8 (7.5 L) — the largest gasoline engine offered in many 1978 F-Series trucks, aimed at maximum towing and heavy-duty use.
Availability of these engines depended on the truck’s trim level, cab/bed configuration, and optional towing or heavy-duty packages.
How to identify the exact engine in a specific 1978 F-250
To determine the precise engine in a given 1978 F-250, start with the VIN and data plate, and corroborate with the original build sheet or window sticker. Engine codes and displacement are often recorded on the engine block, radiator support, or data plate on the firewall area.
VIN and engine codes
Ford used engine-related codes in their vehicle identification data for that era. Cross-reference the vehicle’s VIN and the engine stamping with Ford’s 1978 engine code charts to confirm the exact displacement and family. If the paperwork is available, the build sheet or window sticker will clearly list the engine option installed at factory.
Summary
The 1978 Ford F-250 offered a spectrum of engines from a practical 300 inline-six to a lineup of V8s, including the 360, 390, and the big-block 429 and 460. The specific engine in any given truck varied by trim, configuration, and optional packages, and verification typically requires checking the VIN, data plate, or original build documentation.
What engine is in a 1978 Ford F250?
1978–1979. In 1978, the 351 Cleveland V-8 replaced the 302 Cleveland V8 in the F-250 and F-350. The 302 Cleveland continued alongside the 351 Cleveland in the F-100. The 4.1 litre inline 6 cylinder continued to be sold across the range.
What is a 1978 Ford F250 worth today?
The price for a 1978 Ford F-250 varies widely, from as low as $7,795 for a project to over $169,900 for high-end, modified versions. An average price for a vehicle in good condition is around $27,808, but condition, features, modifications, and originality heavily influence the final price.
Price range
- Low: $7,795 (for a project truck)
- Average: Around $27,808 (for a truck in good condition)
- High: $169,900 (for a custom or exceptionally well-maintained vehicle)
Factors that influence price
- Condition: The overall condition, from cosmetic to mechanical, is a primary factor.
- Originality: Vehicles in original, well-preserved condition can be more valuable than modified ones.
- Modifications: Extensive or high-quality modifications, such as custom paint, engine swaps, or performance upgrades, can significantly increase the price.
- Trim and features: Certain trims like the XLT Ranger or features like the 4x4 and Highboy configurations can command higher prices.
- Mileage: Lower mileage typically leads to a higher price.
Examples of specific trucks for sale
- Custom 4x4: A 1978 Ford F-250 4x4 Pickup in Plymouth, Michigan, was listed for $169,900.
- XLT Ranger: A 1978 Ford F-250 XLT Ranger 4x4 was listed for $36,900 in Iowa.
- Base model: A 1978 Ford F-250 in Lutz, Florida, was listed for $24,995.
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 engine was in the 1978 Ford f250 Ranger XLT?
MMP Rating
| Engine Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Options: | 4.9L 300 Cu. In. I6, 5.8L 351 Cu. In. V8, 6.6L 400 Cu. In. V8, 7.5L 460 Cu. In. V8 |
| Displacement Range: | 300-460 Cu. In. |
| Horsepower Range: | 114-225 HP |
| Torque: | 223-388 lb-ft |
