I have been searching this forum and elsewhere and gathering parts for my ~150K mile '85 F150 4WD 300-435-np203. The truck was cheap but runs rougher than hell and via used listings, and some new I've accumulated these parts (yet to be installed):

> Offy C
> Autolite 2100
> DII distributor
> GM module
> Rebuilt head (Craigslist - wasn't looking but couldn't pass it up!)
> efi exhaust manifolds
> Walker Y pipe p/n 45166 (yes, I cut out the back runner!)

My questions are specific to see if I've got this right -

> 2100 orientation on the Offy C - I've seen installs here with it using a Mr. Gasket 1933 (I think trans-dapt 2065 is same/similar) that puts the carb venturis perpendicular to the engine, and also a homemade plate built so that it mounts parallel to the engine - so the Q is: I take it perpendicular install is common/better? That would straddle the plenum divider (cut out under the carb on a C manifold).

> Throttle cable bracket: What do I use? It doesn't look like the stock one will work as the bracket is mounted on the head but I can't find anything on a specific bracket to purchase - is this something I have to build out of angle aluminum?

> Throttle cable: I see how the efi cable is referenced - is this the correct one to use?

> Timing: Suggestions? I still have stock cam but am considering a swap there as well - but assume for now stock.

These are the last pieces of the puzzle for me and can't find direct answers - and believe me I've spent hours looking - but that doesn't mean I searched correctly!

Thanks in advance! I'm trying to have everything ready so I don't have to make the 20 mile RT to the parts store for anything. I have a decent home garage setup and hoping to do this all in a day/weekend.

 

The orientation of the carb probably won't matter much other than how you mount the throttle cable.

Lokar makes a bracket that works with the stock cable and a 4bbl carb, but the throttle shaft on the 2100 is centered and the stock cable won't actually work. Moroso, maybe, and Summit sell a plate that goes under the carb with an arm on which to mount the bracket/cable that might have more adjustability but I've never actually tried one. Otherwise you'll have to fab something.

Timing is something you'll just have to play with to get it dialed in.

 

The carb can be mounted either way. I don't think you'd see a major difference either way. Whichever way you mount it just try to center it in the plenum opening.

For the throttle cable bracket you can make one or buy one that mount to the carb mounting studs.



And why did you decide to go with the gm ignition module? They do not like heat! So if you are going to run one make sure to mount it on some kind of heat sink and always carry a spare module with you.

 

Because they are cheap and available everywhere. Yes, I was going to heat sink it and I saw in another thread someone had mounted two of them that could be switched if one failed.

The ford boxes are pricey at an autoparts store compared to the gm module, not as common, and the used ones are a crapshoot - thus my reasoning on the gm version. It's a common swap from what I've been able to find out.

What throttle cable?? I still need to sort that out. I've seen the aftermarket brackets that use the carb mounts, so may get one of those, but still confused over which cable to get or if I can use my stock one.

 

I haven't had any issues getting the DS modules. The last one I bought cost me a whole $15.00. I prefer to stick with the Ford parts. But hey whatever works.

The throttle cable really depends on how you set up the carb. Your stock cable is probably going to be too short. If you prefer to stick with a stock style cable you'll have to measure and figure out the length you'll need. Then hit the bone yards and check out some EFI Ford trucks and see which cable will work out. You might have to go with a 5.0L/5.8L EFI throttle cable to get one long enough. The 300 EFI might work but you'd have to measure to be sure.

Your other choice would be an aftermarket cable like Lokar or something similar.

 

The stock cable will work if you can figure out a way to mount it. This might work - Summit Racing SUM-G1419 - Summit Racing® Carburetor Linkage Plates - Overview - SummitRacing.com or you'll have to fab something that uses the two bolt holes in the manifold for the heat riser. And since you're swapping to EFI exhaust you really should get a plate fabbed to circulate coolant to the bottom of the intake before you install it.

 

IIRC some have used a cable from an Econoline van.

 

I used the stock fender mount heat sink on my 92. It took a little grinding and drilling but no problem. I have seen guys cut up an old head from a briggs and stratton lawn mower for a heat sink. Never carry a spare with mine tho, just a cell phone. Just don't buy some junk china one.
Also, as long as you are 2/3 the way there, use the efi coil too. It makes a lot hotter spark. I'm told the duraspark box can't handle that coil, but I have no experience to back up the claim.

 

You can get a factory heat sink to fit a GM module from Amazon - Amazon.com: ACDelco 10474610 Ignition Module Heat Sink: Automotive