|
You mention that your tractor is a worker and the main thing for a work tractor to do is KEEP WORKING. The 300 Ford 6 is a good engine with lots more torque and horsepower than your 172Diesel. I am sure a 300 could be made to work in a tractor, BUT: The 6 is a lot longer than the 4, so you would have to figure out how to stretch the hood and would have to add a frame to mount the front end and provide proper support, since the 6 was not designed to act as a frame and is not set up to mount the front end. The radius rods and steering arms would have to be lengthened and the wheelbase would be longer, which could be a problem, depending on how you use the tractor. Maybe there is a governor for the 300 if that engine has been used on other equipment, but you may need to develop your own. A tractor without a governor is a pain to use. I would be concerned with the strength of the drivetrain, although it might work fine if you are not too rough with it. You would probably have to modify existing parts to mount the front pump as I doubt that there is a kit like there is for the tractor engines. Actual mounting of the 300 to the tractor bell housing should not be too difficult, but must be precise. It might work best to use the flywheel and starter that fit the engine, if they can fit inside the bell housing. A good machine shop that is willing to fool around with such a project is an absolute must. It has to be just right or the project will never be successful. All this will not be an easy or cheap job. I love engine swaps in cars and trucks, but wonder if you wouldn't be far ahead if you just rebuild your 172. Injector pumps are expensive to have rebuilt, as are the diesel engines, but I think you would be most satisfied with the results rebuilding the diesel, especially in a working tractor. Where are you? If you are in the Northwest, I might be interested in your diesel core if you decide to do the engine swap. Good luck!
|
