homer52 writes, "...235 that the owner says runs good. I would like to run it...."
A bit of philosophy for you. Never install an engine in your vehicle without rebuilding first. This is the only way you will have reliability and peace of mind. An exception is an engine rebuilt by a well known and reputable rebuilder.
You buy a used engine, you also buy whatever problems come with this engine. Often you buy a person's headache. A seller is out to get rid of his engine and out to get your money. There is little motivation for a seller to be truthful.
Your wanting to test run this engine indicates you are wary. You should be. You work hard for your money, sure don't want another taking your money and giving you a raw deal.
Engine sitting on a shop floor, there is only one test you need, "Will the engine turn over freely and easily?" Take along a sparkplug socket, a ratchet, a breaker bar and a socket to fit a flywheel bolt. Bring a flywheel bolt and washers in case the flywheel is gone. Pull the plugs, crank that puppy over by hand a dozen times. Should spin very easily, should blow air out the plug holes, in firing order sequence, no oddball noises.
A caution is to ask if the engine has been rebuilt previously. Want to be careful not to buy an engine which is bored to the max and journals turned to the max, 0.060 and 0.030 for a good maximum guideline, cylinders and journals, respectively.
Passes your test, bicker over the price keeping in mind you will fully rebuild this engine. Once rebuilt, you know exactly what you have; a fresh reliable engine.
Do it once, do it right, there is no substitute for peace of mind while driving your old classic truck.
Billyray
