want to use long tube headers, any recommendations of brands or interference/fitment?

 

Not a lot of posts on this, here are a few of the most recent:
Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums - Search Results

 

hey bud im doing the same swap im using a 96 351 roller long block in a 81 e-150 been researching the heck out of it also & found answers but none using long tubes i picked up new ones for 50.00 to try them i figured if they dont work i should get back the 50.00 how far along are you?

 

I ran searches to no avail, I guess just not a lot of van guys interested in long tube headers and I understand. I did try a set of long tubes, but I had to trim about 1/4" (and about 5" long) spot on the driver side to clear and then tried the passenger side and it was worse. So, I abandoned long tubes and ordered some 5.0 mustang shorties and they were very simple to install and fit like a glove, shipping and all brand new stainless shorties for $84 to my door from fleabay.

 

whats the year of the 351?
were you able to use your 302 engine mounts?

 

it was the original E150 1983 hydraulic flat tappet cam 351 Windsor on original motor mounts. I would much rather have a roller cam motor like you lucked up with, BUT, the only reason I'd bought this van was the stock 351 had been rebuilt many years ago (to include new pistons) and just parked due to previous owners advancing years. And I needed a work truck to haul motors/trans/mowers, whatever, and a rare small trailer short distances. Plus I figured if I didn't like the E150, I could yank the rebuilt 351 to repurpose into an F100 or a Comet or Falcon. I'm a true ford fan and have owned MANY, though never a van before. For $750 to my door, I figured the rebuilt 351/C-6/9 inch was worth that.


I could get the long tube header on driver side after a slight trim, but no go on pass side no matter what. I had a broken exhaust manifold and just wanted to go headers, I've never had an issue with headers leaking despite owning 5-6 sets on stuff. Never enjoyed installing them, but never had the leaks others seem to have. But the inexpensive stainless shorty headers off fleabay were the easiest headers I'v EVER installed and look beautiful.