1981 Ford Thunderbird Engine Parts

Essential 1981 Ford Thunderbird Engine Parts

Cloyes Performance – Engine Timing Set (Part No.9-1138)

Engine Timing Set

from

$59.99
Billet Crankshaft Sprocket Has Three Keyways for +/- 4 Degrees Adjustability. Crankshaft Sprocket Heat Treated for Durability. Seamless TRUE Roller 0.250 in. Roller Diameter Chain for Reduced Friction.

Product Features:
  • The complete kits, which meet or exceed OEM performance requirements, ensure a quiet and maintenance-free experience.
  • Cloyes parts are CAD designed and manufactured using premium materials. Each part is extensively tested and measured for function, fitment, and durability to ensure optimal performance
  • Cloyes Timing Kits may include camshaft sprockets, crankshaft sprockets, timing chains, tensioners, and guides
  • Refer to our online catalog for detailed application-specific information
  • Keep your engine’s valve train in perfect time with Cloyes, the world leader in timing drive systems.
See More

Melling – Stock Replacement Type Oil Pump Repair Kit (Part No.K-68)

Stock Replacement Type Oil Pump Repair Kit

from

$61.99
Melling oil pump repair kits are provided to supply the parts needed to rebuild a specific individual oil pump. Melling kits include all the required parts needed for a quality oil pump rebuild. Although Melling recommends the installation of a new oil pump, Melling oil pump repair kits are the preferred choice when a rebuilder has the desire to reuse the original oil pump casting or front timing cover.

Product Features:
  • Includes components needed to rebuild a worn oil pump providing an alternative to purchasing a new oil pump
  • Components are manufactured from high quality materials for durable wear
  • Components are precision engineered for optimum fit and function
  • Designed for long-life and worry-free performance
See More

Driveworks – Main Bearing Repair Sleeve (Part No.S-99181)

Main Bearing Repair Sleeve

from

$43.49
Product Features:
  • Brand may vary by location
See More

Sealed Power – Engine Rocker Arm (Part No.R-1096)

Engine Rocker Arm

from

$20.99
Sealed Power« parts provide innovative designs, use leading edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.
See More

Felpro – Cylinder Head Gasket Set (Part No.HS 9280 PT-2)

Cylinder Head Gasket Set

from

$77.99
Fel-Pro gaskets offer 100% vehicle sealing with application-specific materials to give you sealing solutions with the performance and durability professionals trust

Product Features:
  • PROPRIETARY COATING — Nonstick anti-friction coating seals small surface scratches and imperfections
  • SEALING TECHNOLOGIES — Exclusive sealing innovations and technologies with proprietary materials and unique design features to ensure a superior seal for your repair
  • NO RETORQUE DESIGN — Steel core helps eliminate the need for retorquing head bolts
  • STRONG AND DURABLE — Features graphite or reinforced fiber facing material and steel armor for strength and durability
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES — Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
See More

Cloyes Gear – Engine Timing Crankshaft Sprocket (Part No.S843)

Engine Timing Crankshaft Sprocket

from

$32.99
Along with the timing chain, tensioners, and guides, sprockets are an integral component within the timing system. Timing gears and sprockets are available as part of complete timing kits as well as for individual purchase and installation

Product Features:
  • Featuring precision-tooled or machined tooth form and precision-machined bore for true fit, timing chain sprockets offer reliability and dependability for engine rebuilds and typical replacement jobs
  • Recommended that the chain tensioner(s), sprocket(s), and guide(s) also be replaced when the chain is replaced, as these components play a vital role in system stability and accurate timing
  • CAD designed and manufactured using premium materials
  • Each part is extensively tested and measured for function, fitment, and durability to ensure optimal performance
  • Refer to our online catalog for detailed application-specific information
See More

Felpro – Engine Conversion Gasket Set (Part No.CS 8265-1)

Engine Conversion Gasket Set

from

$15.29
Fel-Pro gaskets offer 100% vehicle sealing with application-specific materials to give you sealing solutions with the performance and durability professionals trust

Product Features:
  • Conversion Sets (CS) provide every gasket for lower engine work – add a Head Set (HS) for complete engine overhaul work
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Validated for fit, form and function
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Includes all the parts necessary to complete the repair unless otherwise noted
  • Includes all the parts necessary to complete the repair unless otherwise noted
See More

Mr. Gasket – Cam Change Gaskets (Part No.4410)

Cam Change Gaskets

from

$63.09
If you want to update just your camshaft and aren’t doing a complete engine overhaul, this kit contains all the gaskets needed to change out your camshaft. That way you don’t have to buy a complete gasket kit just to change the cam, but still can replace all the gaskets you should in the process.

Product Features:
  • Contains all the gaskets needed to change out your camshaft
  • Fuel Injector O-Ring Not Included
  • Meets Performance Standards
See More

Felpro – Engine Gasket Set (Part No.FS 8554 PT)

Engine Gasket Set

from

$89.99
Fel-Pro gaskets offer 100% vehicle sealing with application-specific materials to give you sealing solutions with the performance and durability professionals trust

Product Features:
  • Full Sets contain all the gaskets and seals necessary for a complete engine overhaul
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered for the sealing repair environment
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Validated for fit, form, and function
  • Validated for fit, form, and function
See More

Sealed Power – Engine Valve Lifter (Part No.HT-2012)

Engine Valve Lifter

from

$8.29
Sealed Power« parts provide innovative designs, use leading edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.

Product Features:
  • Unsurpassed quality that you can trust
  • Uses leading edge materials
  • State-of-the-art manufacturing
  • Exacting tolerances
  • Meets or exceeds OEM specifications
See More

Carquest Premium – Crankshaft Sensor (Part No.CSC1103)

Crankshaft Sensor

from

$36.99
A leader in vehicle electronic solutions, each premium product meets or exceeds OE specifications in appearance, fit, and function, ensuring easy installation and excellent performance. The product has been tested under extreme environments, including the

Product Features:
  • Reliable circuit board and product structure design, 3D proofing, and field test verification to ensure correct signal output at all speeds.
  • Manufactured in an anti-static environment to ensure reliability and stability.
  • Extreme temperature and salt spray tests simulate real-world vehicle conditions to ensure durability and reliability.
  • Providing this premium product line, we meet the service professionals needs with the highest quality product every time the part comes out of the box.
See More

Dorman – Pipe Plug-Square Head-1/4 In. MNPT (Part No.785-071)

Pipe Plug-Square Head-1/4 In. MNPT

from

$2.99
This pipe plug matches the original equipment plug for diameter, thread pitch and head type to ensure a reliable repair. Made of corrosion-resistant material, it has been engineered for leak-free performance and a long service life.

Product Features:
  • Ideal replacement – this pipe plug matches the diameter, thread pitch and head type of the original equipment part
  • Durable construction – this plug is made of quality materials for dependable service
  • Leak-free performance – quality manufacturing process ensures a tight for reliable sealing
  • Quality tested – this plug has undergone validation testing to ensure proper fit and function for this vehicle’s application
See More

Melling – Stock Replacement OE Type Oil Pump (Part No.M176)

Stock Replacement OE Type Oil Pump

from

$96.99
Melling oil pumps provide dependable performance every time in every application. Every Melling oil pump is engineered and assembled to the highest production standards from high quality materials. All Melling oil pumps use the latest in gear and gerotor

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high quality materials for consistent durable wear
  • Precision engineered for optimum fit and function
  • Designed for long-life and worry-free performance
  • Melling oil pumps are tested for pressure and flow under operating conditions to ensure quality
See More

Melling – Stock Replacement Oil Pump Screen (Part No.247S)

Stock Replacement Oil Pump Screen

from

$54.99
A new Melling pick-up tube/oil screen assembly provides the lubrication oil as well as protection for your oil pump from materials that find their way into the engine oil supply system. Contaminates enter your oil system via engine ware, extended time between oil changes and other internal engine sources. These contaminates can interfere with the proper oil flow and pressure spring functions resulting in engine damage and/or failure. Melling suggests that a new properly installed oil pump pick-up tube/screen be a part of every oil pump installation. Several Melling oil pump applications are offered with an oil screen included.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high quality durable materials for long wear
  • Precision engineering protects the engine from dirt and contaminants
  • Designed for long-life and worry-free performance
  • Meets or exceeds original equipment specifications
See More

Sealed Power – Engine Piston Ring Set (Part No.E-251X 60)

Engine Piston Ring Set

from

$60.99
Sealed Power« parts provide innovative designs, use leading edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.

Product Features:
  • Unsurpassed quality that you can trust
  • Uses leading edge materials
  • State-of-the-art manufacturing
  • Exacting tolerances
  • Meets or exceeds OEM specifications
See More

Dorman – Rubber Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In. – Size Range 1-5/8 In. – 1-3/4 In. (sold by each) (Part No.570-010)

Rubber Expansion Plug 1-5/8 In. - Size Range 1-5/8 In. - 1-3/4 In. (sold by each)

from

$4.49
This engine intake manifold expansion plug is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this engine intake manifold expansion plug matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
  • Ideal solution – this plug is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
See More

Felpro – Engine Timing Cover Repair Sleeve (Part No.16213)

Engine Timing Cover Repair Sleeve

from

$11.29
Fel-Pro gaskets offer 100% vehicle sealing with application-specific materials to give you sealing solutions with the performance and durability professionals trust

Product Features:
  • Engine$aver Hardware cost-saving application
  • Repairs worn sealing surfaces to assure a leak free repair
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Engineered and manufactured specifically for repair applications
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Validated for fit, form, and function
  • Validated for fit, form, and function
See More

National – Shaft Repair Sleeve (Part No.99157)

Shaft Repair Sleeve

from

$37.49
National® has built a reputation as one of the most respected names in the industry. We have offered premium sealing solutions for more than 75 years. Our design team keeps pace with the industry and provides advanced solutions for today’s vehicles.

Product Features:
  • Designed to repair damaged, grooved or worn shafts
  • Durable stainless steel construction for corrosion-free sealing surface that surpasses most original shaft specifications
  • Ideal for a shaft where indications of seal wear, such as tracks or grooves have developed
  • Ultra-thin construction (0.01/0.25mm wall thickness) allows original seal size to be used with minimal additional lip loading
  • Easy to install with removable flange and installation tool
  • Installation tool reduces sleeve distortion and allows for installation without removal from the shaft
See More

Mr. Gasket – Oil Dipstick And Tube (Part No.6921)

Oil Dipstick And Tube

from

$27.49
Mr. Gasket Oil Dipstick is similar in design to original equipment, it can be installed with simple hand tools.

Product Features:
  • Chrome plated steel
  • Similar in design to OEM
  • Simple hand tools required for installation
See More

Felpro – Oil Pan Gasket Set: PermaDry Molded Rubber, 2 Piece Set (Part No.OS 30725 R)

Oil Pan Gasket Set: PermaDry Molded Rubber, 2 Piece Set

from

$36.99
Fel-Pro gaskets offer 100% vehicle sealing with application-specific materials to give you sealing solutions with the performance and durability professionals trust

Product Features:
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES — Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
  • SUPERIOR SEAL — Manufactured with rubber compounds to ensure a consistent and long-life seal across the entire oil pan
  • PREVENTS OVERTIGHTENING — Torque limiters help eliminate overtightening and gasket splitting and extruding (where applicable)
  • OE-STYLE REPLACEMENT GASKET — Engineered for OE-style molded rubber gasket replacement
  • EVERY PART FOR THE REPAIR — Fel-Pro gasket sets include every part needed for the repair unless otherwise noted
  • ENGINEERING EXPERTISE — Parts are designed, tested, validated and approved by Fel-Pro engineers through rigorous research and development
  • ENGINEERING EXPERTISE — Parts are designed, tested, validated and approved by Fel-Pro engineers through rigorous research and development
See More

ARP Auto Racing – For Use With Ford 289/ 302 With Aluminum Timing Cover And Water Pump, Hex Head (Part No.154-1504)

For Use With Ford 289/ 302 With Aluminum Timing Cover And Water Pump, Hex Head

from

$36.49
ARP timing cover bolts are available in both polished stainless steel or black oxide finish chrome moly. You also can choose between standard hex head bolts or compact 12 point fasteners. Also available as part of ARP complete engine and accessory kits. Studs are preferred by many pro engine builders because they eliminate the chance of pinching gaskets and contribute to easier engine assembly. You will note that ARP studs feature a special bullet nose to guide the nut accurately into place. Available in black oxide finish 8740 chrome moly or polished stainless steel with hex or 12 point nuts. Alternators that come loose are a pain, so That is why ARP came up with these super tough bolts (your choice of chrome moly steel or polished stainless (ARP 300) both rated 170,000 PSI). The stainless has the added advantage of being rust and corrosion resistant. It is the fastener of choice.

Product Features:
  • Made From Black Oxide Finished 8740 Chrome Moly Or Corrosion Resistant Stainless Steel
  • Nominally Rated At 180,000 Pounds Per Square Inch Tensile Strength To Provide You With Plenty Of Clamping Force
  • Made In USA
  • Will Not Fit 5.0L Roller Cam Applications
  • Sold As A Kit
See More

Driveworks – Oil Seal (Part No.S-2692)

Oil Seal

from

$10.79
Value-priced seal meets all cataloged application requirements.

Product Features:
  • Brand may vary by location
See More

Spartan – Engine Long Block; Ford 351W H.P. Mid-Dress Eng (Part No.HP09M)

Engine Long Block; Ford 351W H.P. Mid-Dress Eng

from

$4853.99
ATK High Performance Engines are based on dyno proven combinations built with name brand parts. Most performance engines come in 3 different dress levels and range from 245HP-700HP+ carrying a 2 Year Warranty built by a name you can trust.
See More

Sealed Power – Engine Push Rod (Part No.RP-3284)

Engine Push Rod

from

$2.99
Sealed Power« parts provide innovative designs, use leading edge materials and utilize ISO & QS certified manufacturing in order to deliver top quality products that meet the rigorous demands of today’s modern engines.
See More

Felpro – Gasket Kit (Part No.260-1013)

Gasket Kit

from

$105.99
Fel-Pro gaskets offer 100% vehicle sealing with application-specific materials to give you sealing solutions with the performance and durability professionals trust

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Includes all parts needed to complete the repair
See More

Mr. Gasket – Chrome Plated Engine Oil Pan (Part No.9432)

Chrome Plated Engine Oil Pan

from

$172.99
This Mr. Gasket Oil Pan comes in chrome plated steel. Complete with drain plug, washer & bolts. Stock depth and capacity. Gasket & chrome-plated dipsticks with tubes sold separately.

Product Features:
  • Stock Depth
  • Fits 1958-’76 Ford FE 352-428 (except Cobra Jet)
  • Front Sump Design
  • Includes Oil Pan Bolts
See More

Dorman – Timing Cover With Gasket And Seal (Part No.635-101)

Timing Cover With Gasket And Seal

from

$148.99
This direct replacement timing cover matches the fit and function of the original equipment cover for a reliable repair. This part has undergone extensive testing to ensure adherence to precise design standards.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this engine timing cover matches the fit and function of the original equipment cover
  • Durable construction – this part is specifically designed to withstand extreme underhood temperatures for a long service life
  • Cost-effective solution – offers original equipment quality at a competitive price
  • Quality tested – this part has undergone extensive testing to ensure a quality fit and long service life
See More

Mr. Gasket – Valve Cover (Part No.9804)

Valve Cover

from

$72.39
These valve covers are constructed of a heavy gauge steel that will also help to prevent leaks around sealing flanges. Sold as a pair.

Product Features:
  • Fits Ford small block
  • Chrome plated steel construction
  • Sold as a pair
  • Chrome Plated
See More

1981 Ford Thunderbird Engine Parts

You count on your 1981 Ford Thunderbird to run right. That means taking care of it with regular maintenance, necessary repairs, and the right parts. Advance Auto Parts can help with all of that thanks to our extensive inventory of trusted Engine Parts. With 235 Engine Parts ranging in price from $0.43 to $7,536.99, you’re sure to find everything you need for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird.

Brands matter. If you want to shop a specific Engine Parts brand, we stock 20 different brands like Sealed Power, Felpro, and Dorman. 1981 Ford Thunderbird Engine Parts start as low as $0.43!

One of the best ways to find top quality OEM or aftermarket Engine Parts is by asking professionals. Short of that, you can shop with confidence thanks to our 576 extensive product reviews on 1981 Ford Thunderbird Engine Parts. Some of the top-rated Engine Parts products we carry are Street Performance Harmonic Balancer; 161.5mm Diameter with 4.7 stars and Harmonic Balancer Assembly with 3.6 stars.

Did we mention you can order your Engine Parts from our online catalog and have them shipped right to your garage? Or, if you feel like seeing the parts first-hand, search for your nearest Advance Auto Parts location above and pick up in-store when you’re ready. Browse our full Engine Parts inventory for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird below to get started!

Top-Rated Engine Parts Brands For Your 1981 Ford Thunderbird

Trusted Engine Parts OEM and aftermarket product brands are what Advance Auto Parts specializes in. The brands we work with are sure to keep that 1981 Ford Thunderbird running right for years to come. In our inventory you’ll find brands like Sealed Power, Felpro, Dorman, and even more.

Popular Driveworks Engine Parts

You’ll find popular Driveworks brand products across Engine Timing Parts. All are waiting to get your 1981 Ford Thunderbird back on the road. Some of the top-rated Driveworks products in these categories are:
Oil Seal
from $10.79
(62)
Oil Seal
Timing Cover Seals

Top-Rated Felpro Engine Parts


If Felpro are what you’re looking for, our inventory holds plenty. We stock Felpro brand Engine Parts for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird, and some of our most reviewed Felpro parts include:
TIMING COVER GASKET SET
from $23.99
(34)
TIMING COVER GASKET SET
Timing Cover Gasket Sets
Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set
from $46.99
(32)
Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set
Valve Cover Gaskets
VALVE COVER GASKET SET
from $25.99
(20)
VALVE COVER GASKET SET
Valve Cover Gaskets

FAQs for 1981 Ford Thunderbird Engine Parts

What are the most purchased Engine Parts for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

Out of 235 Engine Parts for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird, the most popular in our inventory are:
Engine Valve Lifter
from $9.79
(11)
Engine Valve Lifter
Engine Valve Lifters
Engine Valve Lifter
from $10.29
(1)
Engine Valve Lifter
Engine Valve Lifters

What are the top-rated 1981 Ford Thunderbird Engine Parts?

Top-rated Engine Parts for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Street Performance Harmonic Balancer; 161.5mm Diameter
from $132.99
(38)
Street Performance Harmonic Balancer; 161.5mm Diameter
“Top of the line”
Harmonic Balancer Assembly
from $106.99
(11)
Harmonic Balancer Assembly
“Good oem type replacements”
Stock Replacement OE Type Oil Pump
from $46.99
(8)
Stock Replacement OE Type Oil Pump
“Product was a perfect fit top notch at a great price”