Classic Mustangs List Archive

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Mitch <(email redacted)> asked about swapping in a late model engine...


>1. The flexplate on the 5.0 HO won't fit inside the bellhousing of an
>early C-4. You can either grab a late model C4 (~1982-up), or use a special
>flexplate (availible in many Mustang catalogs) that will fit and has a 50
>oz imbalance needed with the 5.0 HO. However, your engine will not be
>balanced if you put on a new flexplate - you can live without it, but
>longevity will result if you have it shop balanced. I don't know squat
>about manual trannys concerning the swap.

I also did this swap recently: the least exspensive way I found to mate
the late model 5.0L to the C4 was to use a late model flexplate (eliminate
need for rebalancing), find a bellhousing from a 351W/C4 combination from
junkyard that will replace your original bellhousing (I got mine from a
late 70's T-bird). Finally, the torque converter needs to have the larger
11" bolt pattern of the larger flywheel; I found the '81/'82 4.2L V8
mustangs use this set-up and assumed their weight to be comparable, so I
used a rebuilt stock replacement with excellent results.

The 351W bellhousing required can be identified by 3 casting ridges
located on top and a couple other ridges on the sides. I don't have
a part number, but it is quite obvious and can even be identified by 'feel'
if the engine and tranny is still in the donor vechile.


Bill McCracken...'68 Shelby GT500KR for sale still