Its just an idea right now - any thought/comments?(for '52 F-1)

351 Windsor stroked to 396 with Cleveland heads, alum intake and aftermarket 4V carb (pry holley)! - backed by a 4-speed and 9"

 

You are going to want upgraded front suspension, steering and better brakes with that proposal. Might as well plan it into your project.

 

Yep!!! Already planning that too - either MII or Dakota or?? with disk brakes. I was just curious as to whether anyone has done something similar before and how it turned out or what to 'watch' for etc. (ya know, learn from others mistakes etc)

I have some stock car racing background, so that's where the ideas are coming from. Most guys running Fords will stroke them or do the 'Clevor' setup - I was just contemplating doing both. Plus, I have the windsor and cleveland engines to combine to do it.

 

A few years ago Hot Rod did a Cleavor build up it was stroked and bored to 510cid 700+hp. Better think about wheelie bars too. You might also consider an Aerostar front clip. I believe truckfarmer can give you some details and pointers.

 

I looked at the Aerostar deal a little bit. I think he did it on a 53-55 and my understanding is that the Aerostar is a couple inches wider than the 53-55 - but that can be dealt with. However, the 52 (48-52) is even narrower than the 53-55 and I was thinking that it would be too much difference.

Anyone correct me if I'm wrong but I didn't think it was going to work very well!

Thanks!

 

I agree that the Aerostar would be too wide for a F1. Always leaves the Must II or Volare'. How wide is the Dakota? I alwyas wanted to build a Clevor. I absolutely love my 351C.

 

Sounds like a good combo, but I would stay with the small block Ford heads instead of the Clevor for three reasons: availability of good Windsor heads which will run with the Clevor; tight confines of the engine compartment in a 52 (compared to 53/56); and the limited availability/cost of the conversion. (Oh yeah, the Clevor will weigh more than a Windsor too). The GT 40/GT40P iron heads or World product heads are really good, and the aluminums that are around are even better (TFS, Edelbrock, etc.) Exhaust fabrication and sparkplug changes will be easier in the tight engine compartment of a 52, and you have to find the special manifold, machine the block and heads... A lot of work for the same gain.
Now, I am a Cleveland fan (2 351Cs, 2 400s) and I have always wanted a Clevor myself, but there is an easier way. If you don't mind the extra trouble for the same output, then go ahead. You will definitely have a unique powerplant!!!