If you're going to do an "M" swap, might as well go for a 460. They're about the same width. But the 460 has twice the power.
Agree with all but the "weak bottom end" and "don't turn a 400 over 4500". You've never looked at the rods and crank in either to say this. The rods are as strong as the 429CJ and 460 truck rods. Ditto for the crank. I built a hotrod 400 and it was turned regularly to 6500 and it never came apart. Downside to it was it's affinity for 93 octane fuel with the pistons used (351C forgings with the pin bores opened for the 400 rods)and open chambered heads.
ive never seen a engine stand using the bellhousing, usally u just bolt it up to where the bell bolts go
Don't have to look at 'em.There are 2 kinds of 351m/400s around here.Those that are rod knocking/mains rattling and ones that have been rebuilt "with a new crank kit":16suspect.Very few have I seen with 100,000 plus miles that weren't in need of a crank.I'm glad Tim Meyer is doing something for these engines,but stock for stock,I'll take a worn out 460 any day.JMO
