Eliminate Ford’s Iconic 5.8-Liter Windsor V-8 with Demonstrative Video

Warning: Some pistons have rusted to the walls.

Time can be cruel, and even the most dependable motor may struggle to resist its impact. The Ford 351-cubic-inch Windsor V-8 engine is known for its durability and popularity, but after being stored for nearly two decades, it has suffered catastrophic damage that suggests it was exposed to excessive moisture for an extended period of time.

A recent I Do Cars video reveals the dismantling of a 5.8-liter V-8 engine that was originally found in a 1997 Ford F-250, marking the final year of its production. The engine, which had completed a whopping 210,000 miles, had been disassembled and stored on a shelf for nearly two decades. This particular Ford engine initially boasted 210 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque.

It is clear from the start of the disassembly that the engine’s prime days are long gone. A significant number of parts are corroded, including a complete row of valves. The intake passages are congested with dirt, and even the cylinder heads display signs of rust. Examining closely, it can be seen that the majority of the cylinder walls bear marks from honing.

However, not all components have been completely decimated. The water pump remains intact and seems to be in decent condition. The lifters also come out smoothly without much difficulty. Regrettably, there is scant oil present in the reservoir, mostly consisting of a mixture of water and debris. It appears that the engine may have been submerged in water for a significant amount of time.

LOCKED UP Ford 351W 5.8L V8 Engine Teardown. How Bad Could It Be?

Unfortunately, the passing of time and the effects of rust have rendered it impossible to fully disassemble. The camshaft stubbornly refuses to budge, and multiple pistons seem to be fused to the cylinder wall due to rust. The cause of the engine’s demise is a mystery – there are no indications of any major problems that may have led to its downfall. It’s possible that it simply became worn out and was then stowed away and forgotten, a fate that we should all dread. Regardless, water has definitely brought an end to the glory days of this vintage Windsor V-8.

Source: I Do Cars / YouTube