MWGT40
Supporter
I would appreciate the forums thoughts on the following, possibly controversial topic!
I currently have the Ford 302 SVO engine in my GTD40 and I about to embark on a modification programme to increase the power, initially up to around the 400 BHP level. I have looked at a number of ways to achieve this including Edelbrock Performer or Victor Junior packages, using a steel crank, and/or stroking out to 351.
It occurs to me that not only is this very expensive, but also that if I want to go beyond 400BHP after that, I am back to square one - as the standard block is only good for 400 BHP.
I am therefore looking at a more radical solution which is to replace the 302 with a 350 Chevrolet engine. Naturally, I would put Cobra heads on and make other cosmetic changes where necessary to make it look as much as possible like a Ford block (although car enthusiasts would still probably be able to tell)
I figure that going this route might be better value(the parts seem to be cheaper and better than Ford) and offer a great deal of flexibility for future development (the Ultima uses a Chevrolet V8 and they put out 600 BHP no problem). The flexibility for future upgrade is important as roadgoing cars (and not just supercars) are now regularly coming out with 300-400 BHP (although they are also much heavier typically).
Modifications will of course be required in respect of exhausts, engine mountings etc and I am currently looking at the cost of this.
I am interested if members think this is a good idea, if anybody has done this before, likely effect on resale value (IF I ever were to sell), potential pitfalls etc
Thanks, Martin
I currently have the Ford 302 SVO engine in my GTD40 and I about to embark on a modification programme to increase the power, initially up to around the 400 BHP level. I have looked at a number of ways to achieve this including Edelbrock Performer or Victor Junior packages, using a steel crank, and/or stroking out to 351.
It occurs to me that not only is this very expensive, but also that if I want to go beyond 400BHP after that, I am back to square one - as the standard block is only good for 400 BHP.
I am therefore looking at a more radical solution which is to replace the 302 with a 350 Chevrolet engine. Naturally, I would put Cobra heads on and make other cosmetic changes where necessary to make it look as much as possible like a Ford block (although car enthusiasts would still probably be able to tell)
I figure that going this route might be better value(the parts seem to be cheaper and better than Ford) and offer a great deal of flexibility for future development (the Ultima uses a Chevrolet V8 and they put out 600 BHP no problem). The flexibility for future upgrade is important as roadgoing cars (and not just supercars) are now regularly coming out with 300-400 BHP (although they are also much heavier typically).
Modifications will of course be required in respect of exhausts, engine mountings etc and I am currently looking at the cost of this.
I am interested if members think this is a good idea, if anybody has done this before, likely effect on resale value (IF I ever were to sell), potential pitfalls etc
Thanks, Martin