questions about emissions, and engine swaps...

Hey all! I have a 1985 Ford Bronco with a 302 (5.0 EFI). First year of the fuel injection, so there are problems with just that. I was thinking about swapping over to a 351 with a 4bbl. I live in Oregon, we have DEQ here and they make you re-certify every two years to get your rig re-licensed. Is it possible for me to do this swap or am I out of luck? I seem to remember at some point someone telling me that all I had to do was to meet the requirements of the engine that was in it for emissions originally. ANyone have any experience with this or know where I can go to find out? I'd really appreciate the info. On another note, what should I expect if I were to do the swap? I have 2 fuel pumps (one high pressure, one low in the tank) and the computer to worry about. Should I just get a computer that is meant for the engine that I will be swapping in? Will it bolt up to my transmission? I have a 4 speed with granny first. Any help would be great.

Tim B.

Reply to
nobody_special
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Two of those questions I can answer:

  1. If it's a 351W you're swapping in place of a 302, then yes the transmission and even the exhaust manifolds will bolt up.
  2. You'll need the computer for the 351W. The firing order for a stock 351W is different from a stock 302, among other computer related ignition details.

Hope that helps

Spdloader

Reply to
Spdloader

Any reccomendation for carb / manifold? What about headers? Shorties that I can bolt up to all the emissions stuff? I have to have all that crap hooked up, but I actually like driving the thing.

Tim B.

Reply to
nobody_special

On Sat, 24 Jan 2004 05:54:19 +0000, Spdloader rearranged some electrons to form:

Tim

Fuel pump for carb engine version will be different, too. A carb engine won't have a computer... don't confuse a carb with throttle-body injection.

You better check with your local authorities before you do this. There may be a "tampering" inspection in which they will look to see if all of the factory-supplied emission control devices for that year are in place.

I'm wondering why you want to swap to a carb engine...even the early EFIs were pretty reliable.

Reply to
David M

If you go that route, I prefer the Edelbrock manifolds and carbs. Many will tell you to go with a Holley, as it is most popular, but my personal preference is the Edelbrock, it's a little harder to set up, but stays that way once set. I've always had problems with Holleys leaking, blowing power valves, and getting very poor fuel mileage, and constantly needing adjustment. The Edelbrock requires a fuel pressure regulator also, only requiring about 6psi to function optimally. You will get better fuel economy with the Edelbrock if it's set up correctly. However, the Holley "Pro-Jection" unit is absolutely awesome, lending fuel injection technology to the formerly carbureted engine.

There are many manifolds out there, dual plane, single plane, high rise, etc. The single plane and high rise are usually perform well in one range or the other, like off road only, or racing only, but generally aren't good for all around driving styles. The dual plane manifold is a good choice for all around performance and drivability, but you have to decide what will work best for you. Go to Summit Racing, or JEG's, and read about the different choices and what they'll do in your application.

I agree with David M, though, that the EFI setup is the best way to go, there is a little more expense involved, but the power and ease of use more than pay for themselves. Also, check with your local inspection station to insure that the swap is legal. Some states will inspect the vehicle with a major modification and apply a "Mod Vehicle Inspection" certificate and sticker. For a fee, off course. If I had the money, and time, EFI is the way I would go.

The exhaust manifolds are the same, but the deck / head height is higher on the 351W. Headers are usually made to fit a specific engine in a specific vehicle, so take care when buying headers. The smog equipment should change over with no problems, provided you stay with the same induction / ignition system.

Since deck / head height is higher on the 351W, the aluminum front accessory mount will be smaller from the 302. Get all pertinent parts and especially the computer / engine harness from the motor you are swapping in.

Good luck,

Spdloader

Reply to
Spdloader

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