Engine Stuff

[AP1995V6]

I'm going to start working on a 351w swap for my car, and I started to hunt for 351w blocks today. I have a bit of a problem though so I thought I would come here for advise since the 5-oh forums haven't been very helpful for me as of yet, and I know there are some big gear-heads that browse this forum...

I found 3 blocks that have the measurements for a 351w... 9.5" deck height and 9" between the intake bolts. 2 of these were in 60ish Ford F-trucks and had 5 bolt valve covers. The other one was in a Ford LTD and has 6 bolt valve covers. I was wondering if there is any difference between the blocks or if the valve cover difference is strickly because of the type of heads.

 

[Stangfanatic98]

I can't give you exact specs, but I am pretty sure they are different heads. I asked about the 351w in my F-350 Club Wagon van I have and someone told me it was the more desired type because of the valvetrain setup (if i remeber correctly). I wish I could give you specifics but it seems like the newer the 351w, the better? Other than that, I'd tend to think the blocks would be only different due to the orientation of their 'bolt ons' like their windage trays and location of various pumps and plugs.

 

[juggajuice]

as for the 351w, the newer blocks(1994 and up) although they didn't carry on much after that, have a roller type block (like the 5.0s) so they can accept roller cams without buying a retro fit kit which costs significantly more. the roller cam is desired of course for the excellent performance aspect. the heads of old are considered better if they are cast before '74 preferably D00e dou to the fact that they come with bigger valves stock. if you are going to buy aftermarket heads then that point is mute. the newer blocks also should have one piece rear main seals but that should start in the eighties. all the intakes for 351w's will fit the same but intake gaskets should be purchased currectly for intake port sizing and valve cover bolt pattern. the heads on 351w's after 74 all pretty much all the same as 302's. the 85 and later are the same as the mustangs heads.