I need some abuse

I can't see how anybody gets by without one.

 

What motor does the 80 model have in it? Is it the 300 inline 6?

 

Yep,300 6cyl with a c-6 Automatic.

 

Is an inline 6 any better than a V?

 

Not necessarily. But the Ford in-line 300 six was one of the most durable 6 cylinders every made. This baby was gear driven from the crankshaft to the camshaft meaning you had no timing belt of timing chain to every replace. They weren't the best on gas mileage[15 city,20 hwy] but they had more bottom end torque[pulling power] than a 5.0 V8. They also produced their maximum torque at 1800 rpms as compared to the 5.0 at 4,000 rpm's.

 

Cool. That mpg is pretty discouraging, tho.

 

If I were going to buy an older model Ford Truck I would want that inline 6 for sure. That thing was probably the best engine Ford ever made. I wish they still made it. As far as mpg you are not going to get much better than 15-20 in a full size pickup, especially when you consider that the C6 is a three speed automatic with no overdrive. The C6 is bulletproof too though.

 

I think the inline 6 is what my '84 F150 had( I know it was a 6). I didn't pay attention to mileage because I drove it sparingly and locally, because I had another vehicle.

I can say it was solid as a rock when I sold it. The guy that bought it had his mechanic friend come out and look at it. Needless to say he advised the guy to buy it. Selling it was a big mistake. I kinda wish I'd kept it and sold the taurus wagon; just kinda tho, the taurus is proving to be a reliable vehicle. But it ain't a pickup.

 

Yes sir if that Ford was a six Cyl and had to be a 300 in-line. I put 170,000 miles on my 1980 and the only oil this motor has ever used is what I wipe of the stick when I checked it. It's got the original starter and alternator on it. I did finally have to put a water pump on it last year. I'll miss Ole Blue but I replaced her with another Ford. A Blue x-cab Ranger of course. "100% made in America." It has a 3.0 V6 with a 5 speed manual. The 3.0 is a damned good motor that should get me better gas mileage since I drive mostly interstate miles[60 a day] to work and back.

 

My F150 had a small leak from the rear(differential joint?), still didn't use oil. The mechanic advised the leak was just a seal needing replacement, routine maintenance.

I'll not "hassel" with another manual shift. I got that bug out of me with a MGBGT and a Corolla.