Kernalxklink's start of his build

[kernalxklink]

Hey guys I'm new to this site and rx-7's in a whole.  I have always been a fan of rx'7s, supras, 240sx's and datsuns (they all kinda have the same style if you know what i mean).  But I've always been a muscle guy so I finally had a chance to get a car in my likings.  So basicly i have a completly striped down 1986 rx-7.  Nothing is in it anymore but a couple little things. struts springs brake system.  I bought it for 500 and sold the 13b motor and went and got a 351 Windsor motor for 300 bucks. it has only 46k on it outta a 78 ford f-350.  Im on a really tight budget so this is going to take me some time but i will post pics as soon as i get on.. if anyone has any advice right off the bat plz share and thanks in advanced

[kernalxklink]

Anyone know how much modification i need to do to put a ford 9" in

[kev2769]

Most likely a lot of work would be involved doing a 9"
If you are on a tight budget I would be more focused on getting the motor in and running before moving on to other parts and getting so deep into it you get frustrated and stop the build.
Another thing is I am not sure on how tall a 351 is but I would almost think you might run into a hood clearance problem but I could be wrong.
Good luck with your build and welcome to the site.

[KCDAN]

Another thing is I am not sure on how tall a 351 is but I would almost think you might run into a hood clearance problem but I could be wrong.
Good luck with your build and welcome to the site.

351 is 1" taller than 302.. there will be hood cutting involved.
Forget about a 9" swap right now, get the engine/transmission stabbed in, wired, plumbed, and drive it. The rear end is down the road a ways.
If you're going with a t5, use a V6 bellhousing, it will fit with the 11" flywheel of the 351.
If on a budget, and going carb, use the Ford Duraspark II ignition.. they're a good ignition and cheap as hell.
Granny's is about the only game in town to buy the mounts, unless you make them yourself.
Lots of the swap info on this site that is not engine specific will apply to any car..

IMHO, the LS swap is a better fit for these cars. Engine sits in the bay better, better/more options for mounts, headers, etc...  and these guys on NoRotors have the swap down to a science. With that being said, I've stuck with the 351, simply because I'm in to deep too lazy to start over.

[bikedad]

Another thing is I am not sure on how tall a 351 is but I would almost think you might run into a hood clearance problem but I could be wrong.
Good luck with your build and welcome to the site.

351 is 1" taller than 302.. there will be hood cutting involved.
Forget about a 9" swap right now, get the engine/transmission stabbed in, wired, plumbed, and drive it. The rear end is down the road a ways.
If you're going with a t5, use a V6 bellhousing, it will fit with the 11" flywheel of the 351.
If on a budget, and going carb, use the Ford Duraspark II ignition.. they're a good ignition and cheap as hell.
Granny's is about the only game in town to buy the mounts, unless you make them yourself.
Lots of the swap info on this site that is not engine specific will apply to any car..

IMHO, the LS swap is a better fit for these cars. Engine sits in the bay better, better/more options for mounts, headers, etc...  and these guys on NoRotors have the swap down to a science. With that being said, I've stuck with the 351, simply because I'm in to deep too lazy to start over.

Same reason I'm still Gen1 SBC. 

[kernalxklink]

Has anyone done a 351 swap if so link to build sheet? Tryin to figure out if i should scrap this idea and just do an ls1

[KCDAN]

Has anyone done a 351 swap if so link to build sheet? Tryin to figure out if i should scrap this idea and just do an ls1

I can think of one jagoff in particular that's done it, but his build thread is kind of shitty and out of date. 

[86svo9l]

Before you decide on which direction try and set up a budget. Then compare what end cost differences are between the 351w and the LS. Just from experience I can tell you Ford small block parts are cheaper than LS parts.


Starting with the LS will give you a lot more power from the get go, but has a much higher entrance cost.


The 351w will be a lot cheaper, but will make less power without heads, cam, intake. The upside is that you can grow power into the 351w as you get money. It also weighs more than the LS and will not clear your hood.


Whichever direction you go keep us up to date and good luck!

[kernalxklink]

Cant find his post :-(

[KCDAN]

Cant find his post :-(

My car is what I'm referencing, it has a 351w / t5.   My build thread sucks, needs updated, but i'll try to tell you anything you need to know... and maybe a few things you dont.

[kernalxklink]

So lookin at ur bulid looks like u had to do alotta fabricating... might be in my ballpark of skills. Also not being a creeper but how much do u like road trips... lol looks like ur about 8 hours away might have to buy u for a weekend lmao.  But basicly wat did u do for wiring ur engine. Did u us the origanl engines harness or something?

[bikedad]

Just noticed you're in Milwaukee.

Howdy neighbor. 

[KCDAN]

So lookin at ur bulid looks like u had to do alotta fabricating... might be in my ballpark of skills. Also not being a creeper but how much do u like road trips... lol looks like ur about 8 hours away might have to buy u for a weekend lmao.  But basicly wat did u do for wiring ur engine. Did u us the origanl engines harness or something?

I've redone all of the engine mounts since those pics, in fact just got my radiator mount done yesterday.
I used a duraspark 2 ignition, you will use the Mazda wires for  pretty much everything. This is one of those times when it doesn't matter if it's ford, chebby, or yugo, it's all the same wires. The reason I say this is because of your location... You're near Bikedad, who is running gen 1 carb sbc, and is probably one of the nicest, most helpful guys around... I'd bet you could sweet talk into a little ride and view, pick up some visual pointers. I will update my build this week, it may also help a bit.

[kernalxklink]

Heres one pic ill probably snap a shit ton tom.  Purple rims and stickers on bumper are gone