351m to 400m Conversion
 

Well its time to start thinking about the engine. It will be going in a city driving truck so it doesn't need to be outrageous. I have a stock 351m that I want to make into a 400. I'm not sure how to go about this. I know I will need a new crankshaft. Do I need to get new pistons and connecting rods? It will hopefully be getting a edelbrock power package when I'm done unless you have a better idea. Want to try to use the heads I have but if I need to I can get new ones. Want to get rid of the emissions crap and only keep the vacuum lines that are necessary for running.

Here's my idea's.
Edelbrock 2171PK Edelbrock Performer Power Packages
Edelbrock 61629 Edelbrock Ford 351C/351M/400M Performer RPM Heads

I'm sure I missed something but ask and you shall receive.

To start you will need a 400 crankshaft and pistons. 351M pistons are to tall to use with 400 crank. You can keep the rods you have now.

There are probably better cams out there than the one in that kit. I had numbers written down to some good ones for mild applications...ill have to see if I can find it.

Sounds like you are on the right track. Stock 400 pistons are going to be low compression, so check the last link.

351M/400 Performance Build Up

Bubba's M-Block Ford V8 Workshop

M-Block 351M/400 Parts Reference

Pistons:

TMeyer, Inc. Precision Automotive Machining

I note your links say no hook up for evap. Evap isn't a power killer or otherwise a problem, but if you leave it unhooked, you can end up with gas fumes in the engine compartment--bad enough on a hot day to cause a fire in some circumstances. So watch out for that.

Whoops...I shoulda told him about TMeyer and not to use stock 400 pistons...lol

I pretty much just want a 4v 400. Maybe a little porting on the heads with a different cam.

You gotta buy pistons anyway, so buy some compression.

Porting? You are still mostly under 4000 rpm, probably less in most running. The cam and compression are going to double your current power.

If money is a problem you may want to wait a little longer....if you build this engine with stock 400 pistons I think your gonna wanna kick yourself later....lol.:D

So if I get the tmeyer balanced rotating assembly that should do it. What the difference in pistons he offers.

Money's not a problem I have a couple grand to play with. Can get more if I need too. Just don't want to have a 8000 dollar engine.

He offers a couple different pistons, iirc, depending on the heads you are going to use. Also, maybe a forged and a hyper.

Good luck with it.

So I'm going to get the 400 rotating assembly 9.3 CR for the stock heads. Any suggestions for cams?