http://www.fordracingparts.com/crateengine/302smallblock.asp http://www.fordracingparts.com/crateengine/smallblock.asp I have a 200ci I6 with a gazillion miles in my 72 Mav and I am considering swapping in a new engine. There's several engines to choose from, but I'm looking at one below $3500. The best one, in my opinion, is the 302 aluminum-head 345 hp/305 tq for $3400, but it does seem pricey. And it's a little bit more power than I need. (I said need...I would WANT that much power, though!) However, for a significant amount less is a 351 cast-iron-head 240 hp for $2600. So, I have some questions that experienced Mav owners should be able to answer... 1) Is a 351 much harder to install than a 302? Is there enough clearance? 2) In addition, I'm considering a Borg-Warner 5 speed to replace the dated 3-on-the-tree. Would that bolt up to a crate engine? 3) Are cast-iron heads more reliable than aluminum heads? 4) In your opinion, what is the best engine for a 72 Mav? In terms of simplicity of installation as well as hp output. Keep in mind I'm on the budget. I know these might be stupid questions, but I'm new to muscle cars. For a while I was into my Civic, but I got sober and decided to sell it. Now that I've freed up some money I'm considering putting it into my old decrepid Mav or buying a Ninja sportbike. Either way, I'll go fast. -Cory
pricey but worth it... only one i have seen come with air cleaner to pan and a warranty http://www.roushparts.com/pdf/327R.pdf the only reason i see now going to a 351 is to stroke that to like 400ci plus cuz you just have less hassle with a 347.. whats 4 inches. just my one cent
1) a 351 will fit, but I think the 302 is more of what you want. 2) I do not know 3) reliable? I think the big thing withthe aluminum heads are height and weight. But if you are building a daily driver or weekend cruiser and you are on a budget. A good set of cast heads will work fine. 4) Best engine for your mav? tough to say, but just a fresh 302/306 with some running gears and good exhaust will make for a tough little car. But, only you know what works best for you......$$$, type of use for the car and mechanical ability. Good luck.
If your really on a budget, pick up a junkyard engine and rebuild it yourself. This can be done for less than $1000. If your not able to go this route, get to know sombody in the automotive business that can get you a deal on a remanufactured Jasper engine. I can pick up a long block from them (through a friend) for around $1600. It comes with a 3 year, 75,000, parts and labor, warrenty. A 5 speed can be used and you have 2 options. Either get and adapter plate to bolt it to the Maverick style bellhousing, or go with the T5 bellhousing. Both have clutch linkage issues that you will have to work through.
i've had both the 351w and the 302 in my maverick. in my opinion go with the 302 you'll be much, much happier. also as someone else said you can bore it to 306 or 308, or you can stroke it to 331 or 347. coast high performance sells a lot of engines, ford sells crate motors and so do lots of others. the 302 will give you whatever power you want.
