Hi guys,
I am looking for suggestions and opinions from the guys that have made an engine swap.

I am thinking of a future engine swap in my 54 F-100 from my existing 223 to a carbureted 289 or 302 with a Ford top loader 4 speed transmission. I have never taken on a project like this before and want to keep it a simple as possible and not spend a fortune.

Should I be looking at any particular year of engine or transmission? Will the top loader transmission fit either engine with no problems? What do I have to think about for the shifter and how will it fit the existing floor access? Will I have to change the brake and clutch pedals or will the existing ones link up some how? Would shorty headers be a good way to go? What has to happen with the existing cross-member to support the engine and the transmission? Can I use the existing radiator? I am using a electric fuel pump with the 223 so can that pump be used with these engines? I am thinking of a simple 2-barrel carburetor as I don't plan on lots of speed and do want better gas mileage. Will my existing Dana 44 be appropriate, or will that have to be modified?

Any suggestion will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Bob

 

Thats gonna be a big project Bob

 

probably done by now,that was 6 years ago