Advice
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New User
Joined: Jul 2007
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Advice
Thinking of pitting a 302 in 1949 F-1 instead of the flathead. What do I need to do about mounts. Can the original clutch pedal assembly be used for a T-5? Also, will the front suspension and originaln brakes be adequate? Thanks
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,779
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From: Kalispell, MT
You'll want an aftermarket crossmember as the flathead mounts up front and the 302 mounts mid-block. To go with the T5 you'll also have to do something with the rear crossmember.
Getting the bellhousing to line up with the clutch lever will be the biggest challenge. Most guys just go with a hydraulic clutch and hanging pedals to avoid the problems.
Speedway should have the adapters you'll need.
Front suspension and brakes will do just fine if you take time to rebuild them completely. The 302 weighs a good bit less than a flathead V8. I've been running stock brakes and suspension daily for the past 6 years and it works just fine.
Thanks for keeping with a Ford powerplant! Shouldn't be hard to find a home for the flatty either.
Getting the bellhousing to line up with the clutch lever will be the biggest challenge. Most guys just go with a hydraulic clutch and hanging pedals to avoid the problems.
Speedway should have the adapters you'll need.
Front suspension and brakes will do just fine if you take time to rebuild them completely. The 302 weighs a good bit less than a flathead V8. I've been running stock brakes and suspension daily for the past 6 years and it works just fine.
Thanks for keeping with a Ford powerplant! Shouldn't be hard to find a home for the flatty either.
Last edited by mtflat; Aug 13, 2007 at 10:08 PM.
Elder User
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 907
Likes: 1
From: Kansas City, Mo
engine change
Other options to consider: many are putting disc brakes on the front end, also requires Master cylinder and porportioning valve change.
Many are putting the Toyoda steering box on to replace a sloppy stock box.
Articles on previous pages and at the top of the page drop down boxes cover many modifications available to us. Welcome to a great site and have a great day, chuck
Many are putting the Toyoda steering box on to replace a sloppy stock box.
Articles on previous pages and at the top of the page drop down boxes cover many modifications available to us. Welcome to a great site and have a great day, chuck
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 8,813
Likes: 13
From: Littleton, New Hampshire
The 289/302 is a good engine choice for an F-1. It's lightweight, compact, reasonable power, fair gas mileage, and unlike a flathead you can get parts for it at any auto parts store. The original brakes in top condition will be adequate depending on how and where you drive but discs would be a great improvement. You should be able to find aftermarket motor mounts to bolt the 302 into your truck or you could make your own. 
