[ricktaylor]

Not knowing much about the mustangii if you found a nice one with a 4 or 6 how much issue would there be in putting in a small block? And what trans would be ideal in this swap, preferably automatic. What needs not be changed in regards to crossmembers/motor mounts radiator supports and the radiator itsself, oh how bout hood to engine clearance, per say your using something like an Edelbrock performer intake and whatever carb, is stock ehaust manifolds easier than headers,what else am I ,issing? thanks ..

[78stangii]

Rick, Since the IIs were available from the factory with 302s, the swap is fairly straight forward IF you can find (or fabricate) the right parts. The key parts are the engine mounts and frame perches from a V8 II. They are no longer available through Ford, and not available through auto parts stores. eBay is the best source for those, and they can be pricey at $100+ for a well used set. The V8 exhaust manifolds are also available on eBay regularly, and the easiest exhaust option. Nobody makes headers for the application anymore to my knowledge, except perhaps Hooker (super comps?), and I think they may require cutting the inner fenderwells. Sometimes, you can find a used set of Dynomax or Eagle brand headers which are the best fit - they are hard to install but fit the best once installed. Expect to pay $200-$300 for a used set. Watch out for some headers that cross the primary tubes under the suspension crossmember where they are prone to crushing. Another thing to keep in mind when choosing your exhaust options is the trans you will use. If you plan to use headers, then the best bet is to stick to the Mustang II-specific bellhousing. C4s were used behind 302s inthe automatic cars, while a RAD4 was the manual trans. The C4 Mustang II bellhousing was definitely a Mustang II specific part. I am not sure if the RAD4 bell was II-specific. The RAD4 trans is not a good option for a high HP engine. A C4 is a great fit and can handle lot of power. Some folks have successfully transplanted AODs and T5s in their IIs. The T5s have been installed behind modified RAD4 bells and/or pilot bearing spacers and also behind late model 5.0 bellhousings. If you do not use a smaller II bellhousing, be ready for exhaust routing nightmares. Other items: A V8 engine compartment wiring harness may be handy. Most if the I4 and V6 cars had a weak rear end, a 6-3/4" I think??? They can be identified by the removable rear diff cover. Look for an 8" II rear end at least, or adapt a rear from another car. If you've got a thirsty II, the V8 cars had a supplemental fuel tank in the driver's rear quarter panel... That's all I can think of right now. My advise for the easiest V8 II - find a factory V8 II to build or at least a fairly complete V8 donor car to pirate parts from. Hope that helps... Mike

[ricktaylor]

Thanks Mike, the info helped alot

[bigdog1013]

just a quick note headman still makes the headers for the car ( they are a serious pain in the but). I just paid 212.50 on ebay for a new set of motor mounts ( the only pair I have ever seen)

[fred-fred]

I have done the samething you are considering.
Trust me you will want to start off with either a
Mustang II that is a V-8 or a Mustang II V-8
that is you donor car.
My Mustang II started life as a 4 cylinder but
after I was done it was a 535 horsepower
nightmare that tore up a few ricers.
My best advise will be take your time and don't cut corners
you will pay for it in the end. Let me know if you need
anymore help.
Good Luck.

[horsecountry]

I bought a 78 Mach 1 that was a 6 banger the car has no motor in it but the person I bought it from sold a motor with it a 84 302 with the tranie. I would like some input on how to go about using this motor it at all possiable.

Any help ?