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Swapping out a 200 cid L6 for a 302 V8.

What parts are required to make the swap. I would like answers with reliable sources. I am finding mixed information on this topic.

The engine mounting brackets are different, what years are compatible. I don't want your typical kit from NPD, I want to know what original brackets will interchange.

I have heard some opinions that the springs need to be changed because the V-8 weighs more, while others say the L6 weight more than the V-8.

I will also be doing a disc brake conversion on this same vehicle and would like to know what parts interchange from other vehicles. I don't want to buy and expensive kit, I'd rather get what I need from the junk yard.

Pᴀᴜʟsᴛᴇʀ2
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I have the following information from a good source (done many swaps himself):

  • He believes the '68 Mustang came stock with the 302, so the front suspension should be just fine.
  • When he did swaps before on the earlier Mustangs, they would drop the v8 in and never think twice about changing the front end stuff.
  • You can get heavier duty suspension/steering parts out of vehicles of the same year, such as the Fairlane ... parts will bolt right up.
  • He thought the '68 should have come with the 9" rear, it'll just be non-posi ... if yours has a 5-lug rear, I would bet you can count on it being a 9" (IMHO)
  • The motor mounts for the v8 on the '68 are one piece. Both sides should be interchangeable. You can pick them up for about $20-ish apiece from the parts store. You have to take the I6 "cradle" out, then the v8 ones will fit down in place of them. These should have a standard bolt pattern for your '86 302 engine.
  • The AOD transmission is about 5" longer than the C3/4 or 3-spd manual. You'll need to either fabricate a new mount for it, or you can buy one online. The drive line will need to either be shortened or different one purchased or acquired
  • He says he the 302 would be less than 60lbs difference between it and the 200 I6
Pᴀᴜʟsᴛᴇʀ2
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