Abandoned F-head

So, I came across an F-head that looks to have spent the last decade exposed to the weather ( carb and valve cover off ) what do you guys think ? should I even try to put money into it or just use it for parts?

 

In AZ it might be ok. Can you turn it?

 

In big part it depends on how much water got inside.
If the block is not cracked or totally rusted inside it can most likely be rebuilt to like new condition.
You should estimate $1200 for a full rebuild if you perform all but the machining work.
Tear into it and thoroughly clean the deck then inspect for cracks.
Cracks often develope between the #2 and #3 exhaust valve seats.

 

You're not going to know until you disassemble it. Check the top of the pistons to see if its been rebuilt already. Cylinders can be sleeved, but if the crank is too far gone it's tough to find a good one. And as old-time said, check for the cracks. Even in AZ, water can ruin an otherwise good core.

FWIW,

Mike

 

Just the engine, or did you come across the whole vehicle?

 

Take it home and tear into it, ya never know until you look inside.

 

it is just the engine, not the whole Jeep. It was a junkyard find that i paid 50.00 dollars for. I figured i could at least use the sheet metal for that price. I cant turn the crank at this time. My 55 cj5 right now is my daily driver and I would love to have a spare engine to build up right ( who doesnt want a spare engine in the garage , right?) anyway , From all comments received, I feel its worth a teardown and look see. Thank you for all your input.

 

There is a machine shop right down the street from me. It's run by a cool old school machinist who is very familiar with f-heads.

 

Probably two cylinders had the valves opened when the thing seized so two pistons will be stuck like heck if moisture got in there. Valve cover off is too bad because now you exposed the crank to the elements. Pull it apart and look. Don't break the exhaust studs expecially the front one. If the pistons are stuck, let them soak in PB blaster for a couple weeks and give the piston a whack every few days. Use 2x4 so you don't hurt the cylinder walls. It may be hard to get the crank out if the crank is locked at a certain angle because the rods will be in the way. 50 bucks would be a very good price if the valve cover wasn't off. I would have to take a look at the crank before I'd buy it because the crank and journals really are the show stopper.

 

It was a junkyard find that i paid 50.00 dollars for.

Heck yeah I would jump on it for 50 bucks, tear it down and see what ya got. If it's trashed sell it for scrap, get some of your money back. if its ok you got a super cheap core to build.