1977 with RC front end and 351w

Discussion in 'Technical' started by Elephant, May 7, 2026 at 4:47 PM.

  1. Elephant

    Elephant Member

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    1977 Maverick
    Hey all,

    6 years ago I removed the shock towers and swapped in an RC-107 on my 1977. My plan originally was a 302-based 347 stroker but when that block ended up being bad I switched to a 351w-based 408 stroker. Fast forward to now, I got the engine and trans (c4) fully installed in the car with headers and all. Then realized there were some serious space limitations, making me think the engine sits too high.

    There isn’t enough clearance between the stock brake booster and the heads to install the valve cover
    The hood will be nowhere close to closing once I mount the carb and air cleaner
    Even without the above, the AC compressor hose bends will sit too high

    Ive attempted multiple times to call and email Rod & Customs to find out what’s going on but no one answers

    Does anyone happen to know if there is a difference in RC-107 kits between the 302 and 351w?

    thanks!
     
  2. TeeEl

    TeeEl Senior Member

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    '73 Ford Maverick Resto-Mod (Home-made "Pony Car")
    I don't know about the R&C setup, but I do know that with the stock setup, you lose an inch of hood clearence with a 351, and the stock valve covers barely clear a factory brake booster.
    You could convert to manual brakes, or do what a friend of mine did which was to convert to an after-market power brake setup with a smaller booster. If you want to use a high-rise intake manifold and/or a tall air cleaner, you'd have to cut a hole in the hood and put a hood scoop on...
     
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