Good for you, I love success stories. As far as my opinion goes a good running 216 is a wonderful machine. I'm not a betting man but I would be willing to wager that that old engine will run good. You know what to do and don't be discouraged by thick sticky gas residue.
I had a '53 that had set inside for 12 years, I took the tank out and the lines off. 1 gallon or more of denatured alcohol in tank ( pending how full it was when set up). Put a good thinner solvent or denatured alcohol in fuel lines and close both ends and move up and down several times a day for a week or so. Clean out tank with high pressure and Zep, Simple Green, Purple Stuff etc. will do the job.
On the other hand, a pure stock truck will bring more if you decide to sell. However, you can get a 235 that will run down the Interstate all day long at 75 mph.
Good tires required. One of my '55.1's has been up to 95 mph with a high end rear end.
Have faith..... I'm sure the old 216 will meet your expectations but remember 55 to 60 is their best speed. I have a nice sign on the back of my '52 that sez "if you don't like this speed you will definitely not like my other speed". Doc.
Last edited by Peggy M; 05/29/2024 10:10 PM.
