any body know of where i can get plans or purchase and engine cradle for ford and dare i say mopar. hopefully a universal type.

 

harbor freight might have them

 

Are you talking about a fixture to put a engine in on the floor? If so it can be made with some lumber very cheap and quickly. If you need a idea just look at any crate motor they all should have em! Might ask at the local Jasper replacement engine installer they may give you one of the "shipping crates".
Glenn

 

Try:

www.jegs.com

http://www.summitracing.com/

 

Northern Tool sells a universal cradle for $35. Although I imagine some scrape 2x4's and some cheap casters would work as well.