Standard small block Ford exhaust manifolds and headers will work with all small block Ford heads, except for the GT-40P heads. The P heads require a different exhaust manifold. The only thing you need to worry about, unless you are using P heads, is that the headers you select will fit in your vehicle.
The 302/5.0 changed in 1985. Those that came in Mustangs equipped with a 5 speed in 1985, and all in Ford cars from 1986 on, were roller engines, and were equipped with roller cams and lifters. Those built before that had flat tappet, non-roller cams. The new block that was introduced in 1985 was designed for use with roller cams and lifters, but could be fitted with a flat cam and lifters. Older, non-roller engines could only be fitted with a roller set-up with modification.
The truck 302/5.0 used the new roller block starting in 1988, but used flat tappet, non-roller cams and lifters through 1991. In 1992, the truck engine started using roller cams and lifters.
Take care,
-Chris
|