Hello forum members,
Just wanted to chime in and get some advice. I pulled a 390 from a 68 Mercury Monterey along with the C6. I have a working motor in my car right now, but was wondering, other than letting the entire motor sit, should I even start any work on it? I thought of maybe just getting a short block together. Would it be fine to leave it sitting? As for the C6, should I have it rebuilt, etc... Just wondering, I don't want to do any damage by letting them sit. I just pulled these in case my engine ever dies. OK thanks everyone who responds. FE forum rules!
Get it dry, then plug the exhaust openings, and leave and old parts-carb on it with the air cleaner on top and block the snorkel too. Make sure, as in Moby Dick - "No Water Come In". Or moisture.
Don't take it apart and break the gasket seals - I've made that mistake. Moisture will creep in.
Crank it over every few months or so and it should be fine.
I suppose you could dump some used oil down the intake and crank it thru with the plugs out, that would make a mess but might help if you plan to pull the heads before using it.
I had such a spare 390-c6 that went into dragstrip service after years of sitting in the field in a 69 Ford, just used to start it up every year or so.
The c-6 had sat so long that it slipped on the 2-3 shift, I thought, oh well, not that lucky. But I just pulled the servo, drained out all the gray trans fluid, refilled it, and bang, no problems since.
Both pieces are incredibly forgiving and rugged, as long as no water gets in.
Go to the local animal shelter too and get a good Mouser Cat, tell him his job is to keep mice and other vermin out of the engine. And, while you're at the shelter, look for a Rottweiler/Lab Hybrid or similar, their job will be to guard the cat and keep people away. Now you're set, except for the dog food, cat food, vet bills, dog chew toys, furniture for the cat to claw on, etc. But at least the 390-c6 will be happy.
