I wan't to get rid of it. I can get one of two motors for a little of nothing. its choice A.)351W carbed in ok shape 180K miles or B.)351W MAF 200K miles. Right now i have a speed density motor and want to change to something I can upgrade easier. The only question is what would be cheaper/easier? Installing the carbed motor and switching over the fuel system/guages. Or going to the MAF (I'd get the computer with it). I've heard that switching the computers is a can of worms where as converting to carb isn't that difficult or expensive besides the need for a trans controler.
I can get either motor for close to free, its just what would be the quickest way to get the truck running again. It IS my DD and WILL be getting upgrades (cam/heads/exhaust/pistons if needed/bearings) I don't want massive horsepower but id like to make 350-450 at the wheel. I'm not a stranger to rebuilding motors (machining will be done by a machine shop) but I've never done anything like this before.

 

just for starters.
Your current engine can be made to carb or MAF. No need to change the engine.

A carb is like putting points on in place of electronic ignition
MAF is the way of the future(and had been here for 20+ years already), time to step into modern times

 

I can get the motor like i said close to free with less miles than the one thats in my truck currently. (this motor needs to be pulled and rebuilt but I'd rather just swap it out)

 

What Brad is trying to say, is that there is no difference between a MAF 351 and a Speed-Density 351. They're the same. The difference is the addition of a MAF + Intake y-pipe, the electrical harness that supports that addition and the computer. It's completely and utterly unnecessary to pull the donor engine. Just grab the MAF intake tube + y-pipe, the MAF sensor, the air box, the complete underhood harness (should just unplug) and the computer.

Also you're going to need to re-think your power goals. 450 RWHP is the exact opposite of "I don't want massive power". That's close to 550 HP if not more at the crank, which is asking a lot out of a 351 without forced induction.

I can also tell you right now that your E4OD will not appreciate that kind of power without supporting modifications.

 

I said 350 to 450. Anywhere in that gap would be fine with me. How difficult is it going to be to splice the wiring harnesses together?

 

If you grab the entire underhood harness of the donor truck, there should be very little if any splicing needed.