Posted by WEST on July 18, 1998 at 16:15:08:
In Reply to: Maverick Restoration posted by Tony Bartolucci on July 14, 1998 at 02:24:26:
: Hi all:
: I recently purchased a 70 Maverick from a friend for 900 bucks (an AZ car with no rust and a good body and decent interior). Then I "got stupid" and spent a bunch of money exchanging the 200 ci 6 for a 302. Even going with a used motor as a core it cost me plenty (please don't ask!). Now I have a 302 with some performance mods (headers, dual exhaust with "flow master" mufflers, 625cfm Carter 4bbl carb mated to an Edelbrock "Performer" manifold, C4 auto/2200 stall with a B&M floor shifter, MSD ignition). I figure I've got about 250 horses which is "adequate" (the car's light - has no power accessories like a/c, etc.). In a few years I'd like to really pump the engine up, but that's another story.
: I do have a few questions: 1) The rear-end. I have the stock 4-bolt rear end. Any experience as to how this will hold up under the V8's torque? How difficult is it to swap to a heavier rear-end and where should I look for one (later year Maverick? Other cars like a Granada, etc?). 2) After market parts. I'm toying with the idea of a Grabber hood. I've noticed that there are some aftermarket ones in fiberglass that are available. Any thoughts on these? What about the other fiberglass body parts available? Thanks in advance (wish there was a Maverick "majordomo" email list).
I bought my '70 back in '89, it also had the 200. It was making lots of noises...so I swapped in another 200 (only cause I got such a sweet deal). I always wanted a 302, so last summer I bought a '76 Granada for $150.00 that had a 302/c-4 combo. I rebuilt the 302 and also swapped out my 4 lug rearend for the "gernades" rear end. One of the first projects I ever did was to put a 5 lug disc brake front end on, so I was relieved to finally get them matching 5 lug rear. It bolted right in. I get the feeling you feel a bit guilty bout the money you've dumped into your car. If it makes you feel any better, with a couple of exceptions (headers,flowmasters,msd), I have the same set up. Looking back, I could have bought a rebuilt one cheaper, but hind sight is 20/20. Oh well! I agree with T.L., take it easy on that 4 lug. There are tons of easy swaps out there, why risk it. Who knows, u might get a good deal on a complete care that has both the disc brake set up, as well as the rear-end, it's definitely worth it, especially to save the investment you have already made. Good luck, good Mav. hunting!