Posted by rickyracer (IP: 208.51.233.208) on July 17, 2000 at 12:17:30:
In Reply to: reassure me guys please?!? posted by retoocs on July 13, 2000 at 01:45:14:
well after reading though all the BS, thought I'd put my 2 cents worth in.
Did a change over in 92 from a 302 to 351W, used the 302 headers and flywheel, headers were very tight around the steering box & shock towers. But they did work. Have done two others since then using 302 headers and swap headers. Both work, just tight. Use the swap headers they are a little more roomy. Haven't used cast manifolds, but cost a junkyard searching makes them not worth the hassle. The big thing is check them against a cyl. head for bolt hole alianment.
Hood clearence is not a problem even with the taller engine. It's not that much overall taller. Stangs used both engines with no problems. Weight isn't either. You're not talking about adding 400 lbs here. Just about 100 lbs and you can make up for that with some parts removal. PS if you have it, alumunium raditor since you'll need a new one, etc.
As far as the 8.8" rearend. Wouldn't use it. Have to make to many changes to it. Sell it and get you a 9" or use the 8" if that's what is in there now. Just beef up the 8" using Auburn center piece with Currie, Moser, Mark Williams axles. Axles are the weakest part. And only when you use a nonposi center piece. One axle takes all the abuse. But only if you race the shit out of it. 9" you have to get the 31 spline or it's not much stronger then a 8" for the extra weight, 70 Lbs, you added. Gear selection is just much better with a 9". 8.8" is really a weak racing rearend. (OK everyone you can say what you want, but it is), pinion gear has no support, uses the same axles as the 7.5", c clip is a accident looking to happen, gear changes suck, has to be remounted for older applicances.
: i know that everyone has already told me that this is going to work, but i am gettin nervous and gittery all at once. i am planning to pull my old inline 6 200 motor and drop in a 351W with a C4 and 8.8" rear. will everyone just settle me down and make me believe and guarantee me that this motor is going to fit in under the hood and in between my shock towers and all. please calm me down!!