Questions and Answers
Ford Thunderbird 302 to 351
Q. 1981 Ford Thunderbird, 302, power brakes, no power options, 3 speed automatic transmission, carb, 190,000 kms.
I was just wondering if you knew if a 351 engine from a 1978 F 250 would fit under the hood of my 1981 T-bird. I'm looking to upgrade but not quite sure if it will all fit.
What about the rest of the drive train? Will the 9 inch rear end fit with much hassle? What about the 4 speed transmission? Any help on getting more power would be appreciated. The 5.0 has already got performance cam, lifters, intake and a holly 4 bbl. Looking for more, thanks.
Taking off in a T-bird.
A. If the T-bird has a 302, the 351 should fit without a problem. The four speed transmission should bolt up as well. As for the rear end, that I don't know. It probably will work, but you'll have to make some modifications to do it.
The drive shaft will probably have to be shortened because of the difference in wheelbase but there are shops that can shorten and balance drive shafts.
I would take a lot of measurements of both rears and compare them to make sure it's at least close. If it's way off, forget it.
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