I am thinking of buying a 351m, what are the diffrences between a 351m and a 351c? I know that a 351m is basically a 400 with a shorter stroke? Right? How difficult would it be to build a 351m to approximatly 400hp / 400tq? This motor will be for my Ranger with 1 ton axles, and 44s. I dont need a ton of power but I want alot of torque. The motor runs good C-6 trans works well also. How much power does this have as is? Its from a 79' Thunderbird. Any input or opinions are appreciated.

 

Well, the 302 is a tight fit in the rangers, and I dont see how the even bigger and alot heavier 351m is going to fit without some cutting. Better to go 302 and stroke it, as alot more performance options are viable for what you have, in the way of the conversion etc. If your gonan go with the M block, put a 400 crank, rods pistons etc in it. No external difference, and youll get more torque at a lower RPM.

 

I have completely stripped the truck, only the frame and cab are left. I was planning on setting the motor several inches lower in the frame. If I have to make new mounts for engine, trans, and t-case I might as well put it where I can get a lower C/G. I can get the 351m, c6 trans in good condition for $200, thats the only reason for using it. I need something that works good as it but, can be modified later under a reasonable budget. Thats why I like the 351m, I can make it a 400 fairly easily. Right? Is the 351m/ 400 a bad idea all together? Weight is no issue I have 1 ton springs to go up front.

 

I don't think weight would be an issue but the width of the engine (with exhaust) might be. Will it fit between the frame rails? I'd love to see it but you might want to measure first.

 

Well boys I'll tell you this if they can stuff a 460 into a ranger then a 351m/400 will fit just as easy....
And seeing you have it stripped down lift the cab off set the motor, trans, and transfer then repostion the cab over it all ... put a 3" lift on the cab and you'll make it a whole bunch easier....

 

I'll try to get some work done on it this week, and get some pictures. Thanks for the reply's.

 

got a freind w/a 5.0(he calls it a 302 but whatever gets ya thru the night) if he didn't have an idiot do it he would be doing good

its not an extream pain

heII we put a 302 in an exp(2 seat escort not explorer) friggin awsome but it didn't work so well. well couldn't get big enough tires on it to keep it planted

i wanted a 2.0 cosworth but this way was cheaper

 

ford put a 5.4 in a ranger. i read an article on it. its just a concept, they're never going to make it. but anyway, they put it as low and as far back as they could to make it fit. so there are some tips for ya. good luck.