86 coupe, help me on the motor and tranny choices

[1993SSP]

I have a 1986 coupe, 4 cyl , 5 speed, tossing some ideas around, but I need the down low on putting a 460 into the car, first off, any certain kind of 460 I need to look for? How about oil pan clearance, headers and other clearance issues? Also I plan on running and electric fan, but what type radiator should I use? Another issue is the tranny. I want to keep this car a manual shift 5 speed. I am not worried a/c, heat or power steering.

As far as the motor, what kind of cam do you guys recommend? Should I just rebuild the engine stock as is or have some work done to the stock heads? I am new to the big block game and need as much technical advice as possible, thanks!

 

[lowcountrystang]

Just curious - why the big block? Have you thought about a moderately stroked 351 such as a 393 or something in the 406 range? Benefits are many: great fit for your chassis, much lighter than a large block, available parts are abundant and cheaper, more compatibility with other mustang parts; higher revs which provide equivalent horse power (although slightly lower low end torque than the big block). Don't get me wrong, a 460 is a lot of motor, just curious about your reasons for going this route.

Transmissions: manual trannies - TKO-500, 600; t-56 (heavy duty)

 

[ShortThrow50]

Why? just why? Big block is good for a boat anchor. You dont need that extra weight anymore like they did back in the day. My dad yanked his 460 out of his ac cobra replica this year and dropped in a nice 393 stroker pushing upwards of 500hp. Thats more than that 460 did. Before I get flamed, yes big blocks can be good in the right car and with the right crap bolted up to it. I dont think it fits your app. though.

 

[1993SSP]

I have just about decided on finding a 5.0 donor car and swapping everything over. I have gave up the idea on the big block!

 

[PUNISHER RACING]

A nice stroker 302 based motor never ceases to amaze when done right.