1978 engine swap

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Sep 21, 2015 | 01:04 PM

Chewy1978

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1978 engine swap

I have a 1978 f150 4x4 with a 300 inline 6 and 4 speed transmission (granny gear). I want a v8 to swap in to it. What engines will bolt right up?

Sep 21, 2015 | 01:25 PM

Willz74

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I think straight sixes use unique motor mounts so nothing will drop right in

But a 302 351w and maybe a 351c or the early 4.6 I believe all use that bellhousing

Sep 21, 2015 | 02:00 PM

Chewy1978

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I know I need mounts and a different radiator when I swap engine just making sure it'll bolt up to trans

Sep 21, 2015 | 06:28 PM

Blue and White

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I'm pretty sure the 4 speed (NP235) uses a bolt on bell housing so if you find different engine vs the "direct bolt up" mentioned above, you're OK if you get the matching bell housing with the engine.

Sep 21, 2015 | 09:02 PM

Notmeofficer

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If you were close by I would swap you everything you need.. v8.. either a 400 or 351.. complete right down to spark plugs.. motor mounts and all

300 six motor mounts are different.. 300 bellhousing is the small block bellhousing and are different.. 351m and 400 use big block stuff

435 can take either..its the bellhousing

Sep 22, 2015 | 09:57 AM

Sandgnat

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I did this same swap many years ago, had to change the engine mount frame towers. I installed a 351 Cleveland. I has the same bell housing bolt pattern as the 300 six and 302 V8. It was pretty easy.

Sep 22, 2015 | 11:15 AM

dogdays

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I think a 351W would be the best option. I don't think the 302 would show much change. The Modified motors (351M, 400) are too old. The W engines have received all the development in the past 20 years. I'd prefer hydraulic roller lifters and the possibility of factory fuel injection.

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Sep 22, 2015 | 01:17 PM

SlikWillie

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From: Pryor, OK

Quote:

Originally Posted by dogdays

I agree. There is a lot more AM parts for the W with a much wider array of choices with where you want to go with your build. The 335 and 385 class engines are fine but have less AM support and they weigh a lot more, on top of being more expensive. I am thinking of going to a 5.8 efi with a ZF5. I think it will be pretty easy, it's just the wiring that scares me.

Why do you want to swap out the 300 anyway? They are damn near bulletproof and can be built to put out some serious torque, especially with the granny gear (or a ZF5 from a 5.8L). Recommend rethinking ditching the i6 and price the rebuild. There is a ton of info on the webs to get big torque (350+ft/lbs) plus decent mpg (16+mpg).