Motor Swap Help
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Joined: Jul 2013
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Motor Swap Help
Hey guys, I'm fairly new to the site. I've always used it to find problems out before just never created an account, but I'm stuck in a dilemma and need some advice.
I have a '86 f-150 step side, 4 speed trans with granny low, and a 300 i6. The motor only has about 114k on it, however being the idiot I am, cracked a ring.
The problem I'm having is I don't know if I want to remain with an i6 or a 302. I've seen various arguments from both sides, and I'm stuck. If I get a 302, I'm aware they'll both bolt to the same trans, but as far as that what other work would I need to entail as I'm sure it's not as simple as bolting it in and calling it done. Also I would like to stay carb'd, I'm not a big fan of fuel injected motors. Any advice on a good carb for these motors?
Any help would be great guys, thanks!
I have a '86 f-150 step side, 4 speed trans with granny low, and a 300 i6. The motor only has about 114k on it, however being the idiot I am, cracked a ring.
The problem I'm having is I don't know if I want to remain with an i6 or a 302. I've seen various arguments from both sides, and I'm stuck. If I get a 302, I'm aware they'll both bolt to the same trans, but as far as that what other work would I need to entail as I'm sure it's not as simple as bolting it in and calling it done. Also I would like to stay carb'd, I'm not a big fan of fuel injected motors. Any advice on a good carb for these motors?
Any help would be great guys, thanks!
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 150
Likes: 1
From: Charleston SC
For a carb setup you want to keep the CFM rating reasonable. Don't let anyone talk you into 750 double pumper, it'll take you all day to get enough airflow through it to make any power. IMO 600 CFM would be near the max you'd need.
Now on to the 300 I6/302 V8 dilemma. You didn't mention whether or not you had a 4X4, what kind of off roading you do if you have a 4X4, and if you do any towing.
Stock 302's don't start making any real power until you hit around the 2500 rpm range. Not too effective if you do a lot of towing or low speed off roading (as in rocky terrains).
Ultimately the decision is up to you. But, again IMO, if your truck is a daily driver, go with a 302 they are lots of fun. But if your truck is a work horse, stick with the I6.
Now on to the 300 I6/302 V8 dilemma. You didn't mention whether or not you had a 4X4, what kind of off roading you do if you have a 4X4, and if you do any towing.
Stock 302's don't start making any real power until you hit around the 2500 rpm range. Not too effective if you do a lot of towing or low speed off roading (as in rocky terrains).
Ultimately the decision is up to you. But, again IMO, if your truck is a daily driver, go with a 302 they are lots of fun. But if your truck is a work horse, stick with the I6.
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 150
Likes: 1
From: Charleston SC
You should also look into all the other mods you may have to do with a different engine.
First of all, it's been a long time since a carb came on a 302, so finding used parts may be hard. You'd probably be looking at having to buy a lot of new parts; such as intake manifold and distributor just off the top of my head. Not sure if you'd have to change engine mounts, but I am sure you'd have to make sure your exhaust will mount up, your throttle cable needs to make it to the new carb placement, accessory brackets, and maybe radiator hoses?
Do as much homework as you can before you get half way though a complete engine swap and realize you bit off more than you can chew.
First of all, it's been a long time since a carb came on a 302, so finding used parts may be hard. You'd probably be looking at having to buy a lot of new parts; such as intake manifold and distributor just off the top of my head. Not sure if you'd have to change engine mounts, but I am sure you'd have to make sure your exhaust will mount up, your throttle cable needs to make it to the new carb placement, accessory brackets, and maybe radiator hoses?
Do as much homework as you can before you get half way though a complete engine swap and realize you bit off more than you can chew.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 1,550
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From: Wichita, Kansas
If I recall right you will need a new throttle "cable" because the 300's is on the other side. My personal opinion would be go hopped up 300. Every once and a while you see a 240 head show up on CL, you can still find camshafts, etc. Plus everybody and their mother has a 302. But then again 302s can make more power and I believe muscle mustangs and fast fords got one to make 400 hp for 1000 bucks.
FTE Legend
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 31,930
Likes: 1,499
From: Ottawa, Ontario
To get reasonable performance from a 5.0 with those tires the truck will need 4.10 gears minimum. Any 302/5.0 will bolt in there as would a 351/5.8 and that motor will better deal with less than optimum axle gearing, and with nothing more than an RV cam and longtube headers a 351 could make 300hp/400tq which is a power level you won't get anywhere close to with the I6 without spending a bunch more money.
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