Which 351W should I look for?
 

I'm going to begin a search for a 351 Windsor to replace the current 5.0L engine i have now. Thought I might check some salvage yards for a rebuildable base engine. Anybody have any thought on which one would be a desirable starting point?

I'd like to get a Gen 1 Lightning 351W, but imagine one of those would be pretty tough to find.
What's the next best version to look for?

mardyn

351
 

Ive been racing since the 70s and those early blocks were much better 69-74. Plus if your going to stay with iron heads the 69 - 74 had bigger valves. from 75 up the 351 heads are the same as 302's other than 1/2 bolt holes. Other than a lightning engine those will be best. And they used them in all those big cars LTDs and such so there may be a few left around

The early blocks are the best. If you absolutely must have a roller cam they can be converted to roller. The earlier castings are seasoned--stronger than a green casting.

Roller block?
 

Thanks for the info guys, I really like the idea of being able to use the OEM hydraulic roller cam & lifters, this engine will use a K/B supercharger and primarily see duty on the street with ocassional track use... I found a Lightning 351 from a 95 model, I think that would be a pretty good starting point. What is the block casting # that designates roller compatability.. F4TE?

Anyway, thanks for the help and suggestions...

mardyn

Hmm... i might have a chance to purchase a '84 Ford F150 with an original 351w in it. Only 50k miles on it. Would this be worth it for doing a swap?

You can also look for a 351 Mexican block. THese are the same they were just cast in Mexico. These, like the 69-71 blocks have a higher nickel content. Some say it is even higher than the 69-71.

I just sold 2 1969 Windsors on EBAY for $150 a pop so they are out there. And what do you know, I have a 351 Windsor Std. Bore mexican block for sale on EBAY as we speak!

Good luck in your search, let us know what you decide.

Plenty of options..
 

As I continue to beat the bushes on this 351 deal, lots of options are emerging... I like the idea of building my own (which is well within my ability) but there seem to be some other pretty good options on new and used engines as well... cheaper than what I can build one for.. it's making the choice a difficult one...

I'm really begining to like the idea of a stroked enigne... maybe about 390 to 400 ci, but the costs really start going up for that kinda' stuff ...

mardyn