To expand a little on what I'm doing. First the Trans is a top loader. I don't know the ratio but I will find out. The rear gear is 3.90 according to the build plate.

I'm just trying to get this on the road quickly, but I have a converted standard 2 bolt block to the side bolted block (4 bolt).  Saving up to build that block with a stroker kit and Trickflow heads/intake. I figured I could transfer everything to that build when I'm ready or am I off my rocker, pun intended? 

I just ordered a rebuild kit for my Toploader and since this build is for a daily driver I wanted to have a more modern setup. Anyone do a hydraulic throw out bearing & clutch master on a 4 speed? If so, are you happy with it and how did you do it as I only see one kit available for a Galaxie? Anyone have this setup in a big Ford/Merc?  Thanks.

I’m out of town this week but the guy said he will hold it for me. I will post a few better pictures on Saturday when I pick it up. 

Should make a good starting platform for a 445” Stroker.

After a closer look, the distributor was removed and valve covers were loose with no gaskets.  Feeling around the heads and in the distributor hole, I'm finding some grit.  Looks like dust got into the engine. 

Any options besides complete tear down?

I bought an Galaxie with the 390 FE engine & trans out of it. The po showed me a video of the engine running from a few years back. He had the head's done (looks clean, but the engine wasn't properly stored.

Anyone have advise on what to do before turning it over by hand?