I was wondering what kind or ford cars or trucks came with a 351w HO from 1980 to 1986 before fuel injection. I was also wondering if a 351 w HO or a 1973 351c m code will fit in a 1973 bronco with a C4 trans. What is also the best auto trans to use with a 351, Aod, C4, Oor a C6.

 

Welcome to FTE 33 Bronco!

While I don't know if there were any 351H.O. (windsor) before fuel injection,(barring the '69, not H.O. per se) I can tell you that a 351w or the 351c will fit in your bronco without a problem. The 351w may be a little easier swap.

As for trans, unless you're wanting an overdrive, stick with the c-4. I'v always gotten great service with them.

My .02

Again, welcome!

Chuck

 

The 351HO was originally a Cleveland family engine, built around 71-73.

The 351HO Windsor was built in the mid 80's for pickups. It is a factory 4 bbl motor with a slightly more aggressive cam than the standard 351.

The 351C can be swapped into a Bronco. However, it is not a straight forward swap. Engine mounts are different. You would also need custom headers because there are not any off the shelf parts available.
The 351C is not a very good engine for low speed four wheeling. The heads are designed to make power at high RPM's and are pretty lazy down low.

The Windsor is a much easier swap. With the exception of some minor details, it will drop right in place of the 302. You can also build a Windsor to make serious torque, or able to make horsepower at 7000 RPM, or a combo of both. The aftermarket support for the Windsor is much better too. Plus, factory EFI is a easy bolt on.

As far as the trans, it depends what you want. The C6 is the stoutest. The C4 can be built into a strong and durable unit. The AOD has a reputation of being weak. It can be built to last, but is more expensive to do so, though it will never be as strong as a mildly built C4 or C6, in my experience.

Jason