Generally speaking, it sounds like the 351 is the favored engine over the 302. I have an opportunity to pick up a '92 with the 302 for $2,500. It has good BFG all terrain tires, interior in great shape and no rust.

I will be using it to pull a 22' boat on a tandem axle trailer, weight under 4000 lbs. I will also be using it to run the beach while surf fishing. Other than a member measuring contest, am I going to hate buying the 302?

 

My cousin had an 86 bronco w/ a 302 ho out of a state trooper mustang. It had 38" swampers on it and we pulled a 21 foot Bullet bass boat all over NW Florida. Never had a bit of trouble going anywhere we wanted. It was not a speed demon but thats not what they are anyhow. I dont think you will be disappointed with the Bronco as long as you dont expect more than you should.

 

I'd maybe think.. if this Bronco is a good deal, with a great body and such and no other huge issues, that should out-weigh negatives regarding it having a 302. You might pass it up trying to get a 351w rig and not come across as good of a deal, or as nice of a Bronco. I suppose it's all chance anyways. Always possible to do a build or swap too if you realize you need more.

 

I would buy the bronco if it's all you say it is.And after you drive it with the 302 and are still hell bent on a 351 There are plenty of them motors still around and the 351 is a very easy swap into that bronco. Just my 2 cents

 

Jhruzek,


Easier to upgrade the engine than the rest of it, so it sounds like a fair deal to me. As drivetrain stated, swaps are easy!

 

Should be fine. My dad had a 91 bronco with the 302. Used it to pull a 2 horse trailer everywhere. He put about 200k on it before trading it in

 

Well I opted for a different Bronco, but still with the 302. The first seller disappeared. The one I bought was already lifted (3"), with KYB shocks and steering stabilizer, General Grabbers (33.5 x 12) with new rims, a rebuilt motor and a Jasper tranny. Everything works and I don't have to do anything to use it on the beach.

 

I put 295K miles on the 302 in my '87 before it spun a bearing. I'd guess over half of those miles turning 35" tires. In stock form it made about the same hp as the 351. The difference was the torque rating.

 

Pulled my boat for the first time. Had plenty of power to not get run over on the freeway, but not enough to stay at 60+ in overdrive. Did great in 4x4 on the beach.

What would you suggest to add power to 302 first?

 

A full exhaust system including longtube headers, just do not buy Flowtech or Hooker and don't install an exhaust system bigger than a 2.5" single.
Then a cam change(comp 35-512-8), this should be a roller motor so this is a drop in with no other changes.

These two upgrades will transform the motor, you are looking at going from 180hp/280tq to something like 250hp/350tq.. worth every cent and hour you spend doing the work.

 

The exhaust has been upgraded to high flow cats with dual out. The cam looks interesting. Any head work needed after these upgrades?

 

The 302 might be underrated, but it's a great engine, still not the best choice for pulling, but you already made the purchase, don't worry, it will work just fine (mine has never let me down).

 

The stock exhaust manifolds and Y pipe need to go to see the gains I quoted above.

No.

 

Like Paul said if your still running the stock cast exhaust than
you should install headers and duels at least 2 inch and not
over 2.5. All engines will benefit from this upgrade. Think of it
as an air compressor. It has to be able to pump the air out
easier than pulling it in. But any help with either one gives
a lot of gain. And the short wheel base of the Bronk when
towing can get very interesting very fast. Takes some getting
used to so as not to over steer it.

 

Local machine shop suggests "stroking it". I am not sure what that is. Anyone have an opinion if better than a cam change?