Hey Scotty, I just got a 1985 F-150 2WD, 300 Inline 6, 4 speed manual. This truck has had a lot of work done to it mechanically, and had the Ford Duraspark system removed, and replaced with points. The truck is in really good shape for a 38 year old truck, and the engine is still in the break in period. Now, for the question, I got this truck for a daily driver, I know these OBS trucks well, and I know the old 300 is bullet proof. I also made sure it was a base model, so hand crank windows, and manual locks. Is it really as crazy as people around me are saying, to daily a bullet proof truck like that?
Assuming it still has a catalytic converter, the ignition points could be a problem. One of the reasons that electronic ignition was introduced as standard equipment in the 1970s was to prevent misfires that might go unnoticed in normal driving but could damage the converter over time.
It has a more modern high flow cat, not sure if that will make a difference. If my state didn't have inspections, I'd let it go without a cat.
A points-type distributor doesn't provide a sufficiently consistent and stable spark to protect the converter, especially as the points wear. You might want to consider installing an aftermarket electronic ignition system. (I know the Duraspark doesn't have the greatest reputation which is probably why it was removed.)
Maybe I can figure out a solution, not sure how many electronic ignition systems exist for the 300
There's always Pertronix, they make a version for almost any points distributor.
Maybe, thanks for the help, I'll look them up
Yes, you are crazy. But in my book, there is nothing wrong with that. Ahhahhahaha. If it works and it’s not giving problems, why not? You’ll know when it is time is your for the truck as a daily.
There is nothing wrong with daily driving one, just drive careful. Newer vehicles are safer in collisions, so something to consider.
Newer cars are less about reliability, and more about the appliance motife. I get that they have more safety features, but they aren't nearly as reliable as many of the older vehicles.