Hey guys i am trying to replace the 250 I6 with the 302 V8. I have found a remanufactured engine that I am going to convert to EFI but need to know how much horsepower it can handle before everything cracks. Does anyone know if 300-385 bhp is to much? Has anyone tried to convert their 302's from carb to EFI?
If your going to replace your motor, don't buy a remanufactured 74 302, I think it's around 185 HP from the factory (not very much, I could be off with 185) the stock compression is pretty low, save your money and buy a rebuilt or good original 302 roller motor. I've just spent $2000.00 on one of my 74 302's (just the short block) and think it would have been better spent on one of the roller motors I have.
I have the 74 and it only has 8:1 compression, as low as they ever went. I don't think it had even 180 hp stock (I don't know for sure), I would have guessed more 130-150 (flywheel). Many guys are getting 500 hp consistently, then cracking the block if they go too much over that, so building a 400-450 hp engine should be strong and safe.
if you go with a 302, dont rebuild it to stock. rebuild it with the same amount of cash, maybe a little more and get some power out of it. it all depends on what you want to do with it.. drag.. street.. play around, or daily driver
Just found this on THIS SITE!!! 1973--302-8 horsepower drops to 138, compression down to 8.0:1 1974--302-8 rises back to 140 hp (from 138) (that makes me RIGHT ON correct with my estimate of 130-150!!! ) But I am pretty sure it is not because of a compression change. Entire site is here http://www.maverick.to/grabber/mavchanges.html