Old Engine

I just picked up a 67 Mustang rather cheap as the previous owner felt there was block damage. The boat has a 302 Interceptor in it that my guess went in around 77 or so.

After playing with the engine (new hoses, impellor, wiring, etc.) I was able to get it to start. Prior to starting I lubricated the cylinders with oil and turned the engine over by hand. Also put new engine and tranny fluid in. Very smooth. . . I then proceeded to start the engine on a small test tank and it started and idled great.

Running it there is some nose under the valve covers but I would think just based on age this is normal. It appears evenly distributed amongst all of the valve cover.

What should / could I do to this engine.

Engine Flush
Tranny Flush
Rinse the Cooling System with Something
Rebuild
Something Else

I have want I think is solid oil pressure just above 20 psi at idle which jumps to or above 40 at middle RPM's. Engine temp is a solid 140. Not that hours means anything but I have no clue in regards to the engine.

Thanks for the help and insight.

Exactly,

My 25 year old 351 has had noisey lifters since I bought it in '96, its very strong, responsive and still uhm, tickin. It'll get fixed in due time.

Keep an eye on the oil pressure.

I had a 1968 car motor with low miles that went south when the valve seals started falling apart. I replaced the seals, but a month later the oil pickup blocked up, starved the motor, and spun a bearing. My brother had the car at the time.

I just didn't get to the valve seals in time, and enough little pieces were already making their way down into the oil pan.

Car was running great, and only smoked a little on startup and throttle lift-off. Wasn't burning through much oil. The oil pressure sending light was coming on, but would go back off. I replaced the sending unit, but apparently it was telling the truth.

Take off the valve covers and have a peek.

'cept I think 68 1/2 was the last year with adjustable rocker studs.