Posted by T.L. on July 19, 1998 at 14:53:06:
In Reply to: Re: 1971 Maverick (250?) posted by Chris Higgins on July 18, 1998 at 09:59:22:
Is it worth keeping?? Well, only you can really decide that. It's all just a matter of what you're looking for from an engine. It's ALSO a matter of how much money you're able/willing to spend on modifications. An engine swap is a pain in the ass, but can be highly rewarding. You can certainly get more power from the "six" but for the same amount of money (or maybe less) you'll get even more from a 302. Not to mention the fact that there's NOTHING quite like the SOUND of a V-8. I don't know why, but even a V-10 (Dodge) doesn't sound like a V-8. A free-flowing exaust system on a 6-cylinder sounds like a lawn mower. There are many people frequenting this board who simply want a restored, unmodified Maverick that looks and runs good. There's nothing wrong with that. Not everyone wants a "hot-rod". If you're looking for muscle however, the 302 with a 4-barrel, good cam and dual exhaust is the way to go. If you're gonna be rebuilding the 302, taller pistons and bigger valves will give you even MORE. A 351windsor is capable of even more power than a 302 due to its longer stroke but it's also about an inch wider because of its taller deck height so it requires modification to install into a Maverick and changing spark plugs is a pain. I'm only telling you all this because you asked me for my opinion. Ultimately, you have to decide what's right for you. Go to your local drag strip (if you have one) and see what kind of engines those people are racing. Budget performance has always been a V-8 (the biggest that will fit) with a 4-barrel & dual exhaust. The rest is up to you and your wallet...
: Hey TL,
: You think the 250 I6 is worth keeping ?
: I've been fretting over the question , "should i throw in a 302"
: or should I just have fun w/ the 250 and see what comes out of it ?
: I'd like to hear your veiwpoints and opinions, thanks, as well as everyone else's !!
: : What? Replace that TORQUE monster of a six-cylinder with a wimpy 302? Only an idiot like me would do something like that. But seriously though; It will fit so you don't need to "make it fit". You didn't mention what your original transmission is so I'll assume it's a manual. If it is, you will need to make sure that the driveshaft is the correct length for the C-4 (the one thing I'm not sure of). You will need a V-8 crossmember and V-8 front springs are a good idea unless it's strictly a drag car in which case the six cyl. springs are better. You'll need the proper radiator and transmission cooling lines which you can get from a donor Maverick or else fabricate new ones. You'll need the 302 motor mounts as well. That's the main stuff although you may find a few other 'small' details to deal with. In any case, have fun and let us know how it turns out...
: : P.S. Sarah, if you're reading this; it doesn't concern you and I don't care what you (or your buddy Jon) think.
: : : I recently purchased a 71 Maverick with a 250 engine. A friend wants to sell me a 1984 Mustang 302 and C-4 transmission. What will I need to do to make it fit. It also has headers. Any help will be appreicated.