I would appreciate info on how much work and what parts I would need (engine & tranny mounts, radiator & such) and where would be the best place to get these parts. I have a chance to get cheap either a Ford 400 w/c6 tranny or Ford 429 w/c6 trany.
Would like someone who has done this change for there info, as I requested info back in Apr or May about a 4 speed swap with my 3 speed and was told no problem and no mention I would need to replace the tranny mount to drop it to install.
Thanks
Van

 

With those engines you probally will have to do firewall modifications and maybe change the steering box since it will probally be in the way.

 

Just found a 351w and c4 tranny does anyone have the ends and outs of going to the 351 small bock and auto.

 

my 51 has a 429 but it is too heavy and does not fit rite

 

That combo is like a perfect fit for these trucks since the C-4 lines up with the original trans crossmember. Since you have a F-1 you will just have to cut a notch in the original crossmember slightly and weld in a flat plate. Just drill your two holes and your tranny mount is done. If you still have the I beam you can just buy a universal Ford engine crossmember. You will have to get block hugger headers because anything else will hit the steering box.

 

51dueller
Thanks for the info., I really appreciate it.
Do you know what radiator can I use? and is the same info good if I go with a new 302 w/c4 as well?

Thanks Again!
Van

 

Still the same for 302/C-4. The flathead radiator is big enough for a small block ford. You just have to block of the unused ports or get them removed and filled. With the original rad you can have any water pump arrangement since you can choose which ports to use. You may not be able to fit a mechanical fan. I have to use a electric fan.

 

One additional note......I have a '51 with a 289/C4 in it, and while I have a newer radiator which works well with the 289, the original heater core is still in the truck (which comes in handy on those cold Canadian spring and fall mornings). I kept having leaks appear in the heater core. After the third repair, the shop owner asked what pressure the radiator cap was set for - that it might be too high for the heater core.

As it turns out, there was a 15 pound cap on the rad, whereas the original flatheads ran about half that pressure (hence, the heater core would have been designed for low pressure, as well). I replaced the cap with an 8-pound one and haven't had any problems at all.....engine temp has remained the same, no trouble cooling, overflow tank seems to work just fine, etc.

Good luck
Brian

 

I have to trucks that have big blocks in them. My 1950 F-5 Has a stock rebuild 460,carb engine,with 4-speed granny trans and 2-speed rear,The engine fit great,no firewall mod,or steering box mod and I used a 79 Ford truck 4 core radiator. The stock radiator wont even start to cool it. My other one is a 1952 Mercury M-3 It has a modified 460 EFI,stroked,balanced and etc. with a turbo. But I was looking for power and cubic inch. The machine said it was puting out right at 560 h.p. but it was tested before the turbo was put on. I did have to build a complete new firewall for it,that sits back 3 inches from orginal place. But these trucks were built before gas went so high. I did help a guy put a 351 windsor in his 51 and it fit and ran great. Thats the way I would go. And if you fel the need for more power,companys do sell stroker kits for the 351W,that will go up to 426 cubic inch. Good Luck !

 

I went ahead and bought a 302 (68-74) long block and will be delivered tomorrow, Wednesday. Is there anyway you can help me with what all I will need to do for this conversion? I tried to email you but it said I had to have 3 days as a member and 15 post. I've been a member since last year but I rarely post anything. My email is KSURules@***.net if you could share your knowledge I'd be greatful.

Thanks
Vans1951F1

 

I'm afraid I wouldn't be much help to you - I didn't install the motor myself. I can say, however, that it looks like it fits with plenty of room to spare...there's lots of room between the motor and the firewall, and plenty between the fan and the rad. As for mounts, it's hard to tell. There are two brackets welded to the frame, but I don't think they are in their original locations....the welds seem a little 'sloppy' to be from the factory.

Good luck
Brian