I still have made no decision on what I'm doing with the drivetrain, but I have access to a 351W and a 352FE and I like the numbers I'm coming up with both. The problem is I don't think I'm going to spend that much money on an AOD so it will survive behind either of these engines. What scattershields are available to actually fit a 74 Comet? slightly larger tranny tunnel than early models, but the AOD is still a tight fit...
An FE in a Comet? Take pictures. After shoehorning that motor in there, you won't think much of fabbing a new transmission tunnel to fit over whatever scattershield you choose.
The FE seires engines are quite a but heavier and a 390 or larger would be prudent over a 352/360 displacements. The cost of parts could be a consideration not to use this series. The 302/351W engines have a steel blow proof bell housing available for standard trans, for quite a long time on the market. I had one for a couple months to use for patterning purposes before returning it to it's owner but don't remeber who makes it but should be easy to find out.
I had a small block with a Lakewood scattershield and a toploader 4 speed in my 70 Maverick years ago. Fit fine and I am told the 70 trans tunnel is smaller than the others.
The FE depends greatly on the condition of the engine(been sitting for a good while) and what year the 351W is. If the 351 has good heads, I may go with it instead. I'll shoehorn an engine, but after my floorpans and cowl are done, I'll be getting paid well the next time I weld sheetmetal that thin. Good to hear scattershields are not a problem...
