SBF 302--Torque, Throttle Response, Efficiency--Possible?

[Falcon67]

The 351C can be a more peppy unit when running properly prepped 2V heads since the low speed port velocity is higher.  They still need work, so in reality the SBF with aftermarket heads or Exploder heads is a quicker/less work deal.  My backup 302 for the door car is an old 65 block, heavy TRW pistons, stock rods, 218/226 hydro Crane, GT-40 ported heads and and Air Gap intake.  Makes around 300.  Looks pretty cool with a tunnel ram and dual Edelbrock 600s on it too. 

The 352 would be a good setup.  Note that the FE motors use a 10.17 deck and the 351W is only a 9.5, so a more compact engine should that be a consideration.  302 vs 351W you need a different oil pump, pan, intake and distributor.  Heads are same.  IMHO if you wanted a compact little scooter, a 302 block with a 331 kit, GT-40 or AFR 165 heads and the appropriate roller cam would make a really nice package. Not necessarily real cheap, but good power, solid, reliable, fit in about anything including a Pinto LOL. 

[410bruce]

Okay, I think this is the way I'm going to go.

302 (5.0) short block
Stock E7TE heads
Either aftermarket EFI or GT40 Mountaineer 5.0 intake manifold assembly and aftermarket engine management harness with A9L Mustang ECM (I have the Mountaineer intake and A9L ECM.)
I have two camshafts. One I believe to be stock 5.0 (truck or 5.0 HO, I'll have to check) or like new E303 Ford Racing.
I have most of the front dress.
Won't have to change transmissions initially as I'll be able to use the stock C6.

Will have the machine shop port the E7s. Won't have to do hardened seats. Will be able to use all stock valve train components.

Comments?

[Joe-JDC]

You will need to change the retainers and keepers, and possible new valves if you use the E-303 camshaft.  I would change them regardless, but the keeper groove is different between the intake and exhaust valves because of the rotators depending on year, car or truck head.  There are several versions of the E7 heads.  I have ported hundreds of them, and they work really well with the Cobra/Explorer/Mountaineer intake combinations and the E-303 camshaft.  I use the Cobra/Ford Motorsports bolt down 1.7 rocker arms, if wanting more lift.   If you keep the boltdown rocker system, make sure of the valve tip length on any new valve stems.  I believe it was .390" not the normal .250".  Some machine shops don't pay close attention to these little differences.  Your pushrods will not work if the tip length is not correct.  Joe-JDC

[410bruce]

Excellent information, Joe. Thank you. 

[67xr7cat]

Don't know if you ever messed with automatics, but if you find an E4OD core can swap in the gearset for a better 1st and 2nd ratio on the C6. Would help off the line and around town.  This link shows what parts are needed, but can usually find the parts cheaper.

https://www.oregonperformancetransmission.com/product/OPT-KC6GRP.html

[410bruce]

I don't monkey with automatics but that's pretty cool. Thanks.

[410bruce]

Okay, after discussing port work with my machinest, it would appear that with port work, valve job, possible guide replacement etc., I would be within $150-$200 of buying a new set of Edelbrock E Streets. The AFR Enforcer 185s are only a tad more than the E Streets.
Not sure what I'm going to do yet regarding the heads. 

[Falcon67]

Okay, after discussing port work with my machinest, it would appear that with port work, valve job, possible guide replacement etc., I would be within $150-$200 of buying a new set of Edelbrock E Streets. The AFR Enforcer 185s are only a tad more than the E Streets.
Not sure what I'm going to do yet regarding the heads. 

Yep - why the iron 351C 4V heads under my bench may never see the machine shop.  I'm a racer so $3000 for a set of CHI units is just the cost of doing business, but same for a 302 or 351W, would just walk on by any stockers.  Too many good options that come complete.  AFD is now out of business (bummer!) but I paid $1600 for a bare set ready to go, put my valves in it and bada-bing, zoom-zoom.