I bought a Pro Mod 4.6 short block for my 2000 GT...
I havent got it put in the car yet though..Nice people to deal with...They are closer to me than the west coast people!
Rick Anderson is an awesome 5.0 guy and he buys from DSS..
You're talking about the cast mounts right? You know those are weaker than the steel mount right? I swapped mounts with Realmongo as he needed the early mounts for his 260 powered '64 1/2" and I wanted the later mounts simply because they're easier to stab the motor.
I feel like we may have hijacked a thread here....but anyway....
I have heard from a few people that they are a 'weaker' design....I won't argue that point because I don't really know but I have also heard from other people they are just fine. Here's a pic to see if these are the ones you are thinking off: http://www.dodgestang.com/images/engineinstall6.jpg
I run a torque strap on the motor as well to limit movement. I have plans that if I see any unusual wering in the actual block mounts to convert them to a semi-solid mount with the old second bolt through the middle trick.
AS for the oil pan clearance issues....It is low, but the grass makes it looks lower...iirc its 4.75 to the pan....I have no worries aside from taking it a little easy when entering and leaving parking lots. I run a stiffer suspension than some people like (620s, KYB g-a-j, 5 leaf, 1 1/8 & 3/4 sway, in fact the nly thing I have done that specificly loosens the suspension is roller perches) because I like the positive road feedback and the thick plush late model bullit seats work wonders to keep the posterior comfy
No, I haven't bought anything from Bad Ass Engines - but I have heard that they have a good reputation. Especailly if you really don't want crate engine and have it customized... good luck on whatever you decide.
I read every shred of info on the BadAss site and came away very impressed. No, I myself don't have one. And don't know personally of anybody who has one. But I really got a nice vibe from the stuff I read. I'm sure DSS and CHP can build you the same quality engine for around the same price. But it's possible it won't get the same small shop attention. My ONLY problem with mail order engines is that I'm so far away from whomever I choose. If there is a problem.. how do I get any decent customer service when I'm in Wisconsin and the supplier is in Cali?
My advice would be to shake the local tree of knowledge. There has to be a friend or local ring of gearheads with some opinion of local shops that could help you narrow it down. I'd line up a few shops and go in to talk to them. I understand you may not speak the language. But if you're open about it up front, a good shop will understand that and try to work with you. If you get a bad vibe... walk out. No harm.
If you can't find anybody local... from what I've read, call BadAss and talk to that guy. He sounds like a guy that will do everything to help you as long as he knows you're not wasting his time. Tell him you got the money and go from there. Sounds like a serious place... no B.S.
Looking at the B/A site and comparing to say K/C site, it's hard to compare apples to apples. I know K/C has been in the business a lot longer and has a ton of race motor building experience which I think works well in building a streetable motor that makes power. I'm sure there are tons of great builders out there, my best advice is to find one close to you. Arkadelphia is a long ways from OKC, but he has a store front in Plano, which is just a couple hours down the turnpike from me. I plan on getting Keith to build me a stroker FE for my '63 Fairlane.
Got my engine from Fordstokers.com. Did a lot research prior to buying and he had a lot positive feedback. Very happy with engine and customer service was great. I ended up going with a 347. Plenty of power. I've got a 66 vert I'm doing and probably will do the same thing. 302 base leaves a little more room in engine bay area. Also located in Illinois - since I'm in Indiana another selling point.