Discuss 1965 mustang shock tower kit to fit a 351 windsor on AllFordMustangs.com, the place for Mustang enthusiasts.
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Technical discussions specific to 1964-1967, 1968-1970, and 1971-1973 Classic Mustang. Discuss all tech related to in-line six cylinder and V8 powered Vintage Mustangs here.
I am putting in a 351w and need to make more space. Someone told me there is a kit out there to modify the shock tower. Can anyone help me find it? Ive searched and nothing comes up...
Here you go sir, everything you need is here, they sell the headers witch is really all you need. The shick tower kit from the Fairlane will help make more room but really is not required.
Here you go sir, everything you need is here, they sell the headers witch is really all you need. The shick tower kit from the Fairlane will help make more room but really is not required.
I think this is for a big block FE engine - you might need it if you were putting in a 390, 427, 428, or 429 but this is not something you need to drop in a 351W - I am pretty sure you can even use the stock 351W exhaust - they are actually better than the stock 289 exhaust manifold. I have actually used them in a '67, but not a '65-'66.
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Beri Fraley Strong, Proud and Ugly
If you find yourself in a fair fight, you haven't been trained properly.
I heard its a tight fit and on another forum there is a whole thread dedicated to how you have to modify the towers to fit the headers. If you can find me a picture of a 351w in a I6 65 mustang I would love to see it! And you would save me some cash! Thanks so much for your help
Here is a picture of DT - Nick's (Dodgestang) '65 with a 351C - tight, but no mods. And the 351C is lots bigger than the 351W (block and heads)
Since you are converting from an I6, there are some other things you need to do, but that is probably another thread. Search on here and you may find a comprehensive list.
Unless you are willing to change the suspension and everything, I would keep an I6 in there. I would really advise to start with a V8 car. As far as the cross member - IDK - I know you need new motor mounts - I have never done an I6 to V8 swap.
Headers might be a problem - IIRC you can get a pair that will fit - there should be plenty of options short of cutting the shock towers = major PITA.
BTW - nice FB page and good to see you actually having fun and doing work on the car - my daughter was not afraid to work on hers either. She was ready to drive it to college but we kept it at home.
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Beri Fraley Strong, Proud and Ugly
If you find yourself in a fair fight, you haven't been trained properly.
It is really easy, the towers are the same, you do however have to spring up and upgrade to the V-8 stuff. and the headers. But pretty much thats the required stuff.
I am in the same boat kinda I am taking a T-code car to a 427 side oiler level
Ive upgrade some already- 9 in rear end, and granada disc brakes. And i just got all the linkage and power steering from a v8- I will search for more info on here. Too late to turn back now! This engine is going to fit!
Thanks for checking out my page! I do love being a grease monkey!
You do not need to cut the shock towers at all. I have a 1965 with a 351W that I installed in 1985, it all bolted in. The headers are nice, but stock manifolds will work. I am in the process of updating some with the Hedman Hedders and correct alternator and power steering brackets. You will need a higher capacity radiator for sure. The Mustang does not have a different crossmember from I6 to V8, the engine brackets bolt to the inner front frame rails, the tubular crossmember that runs under the engine is simply a brace from one side to the other, nothing bolts to it.
Ive just finished this swap and it was a pain. id recommend a swap header, NOT the Hedman ones, i would removev your master cylinder, heaterbox, and unplug all the wiring. keep in mind if the 351 is from a truck you will need a new oil pan, and if you want a dipstick then you will need a timing cover with one in it. also if the engine is newer you may need an ignition control module becuase it may have electronic ignition. look on this website for a home brewed option 65 mustang shock tower mod - Ford Muscle Forums : Ford Muscle Cars Tech Forum
and while your cutting up the shock towers you might as well do the shelby/arning drop.
I did the Shelby drop Well worth it I second his post. and for the radiator I went with the newer FOX body its wider and has more area. I just had to cut the front opening to allow more air in. Works awesome
1965 mustang shock tower kit to fit a 351 windsor 
It's an FE thing
