Hello im new to the board. I have a few questions, I have been interested in mavericks for some time but this will be the decideing factor on whether i buy one. Is the 351w the largest engine you can put in with out having to invest major amounts of money and modify the front end. Would it be possible to squeeze a 400modified/magnum engine into a maverick or comet has anyone tried this. What is the weight of a maverick with a 351w in it.(Metal body not fiberglass.) And do you think $75 is good for a 74 maverick (around here it is) rolling chasis no engine or tranny.(not sure body condition.) And is it worth my time going into such an extensive project or should i go for a heavier car with a 460 in it that would require only minor mechanical and heavy cosmetic work.(mostly interior) Thanks for the help.
You are correct. The 351w is the largest engine that will "fit" the stock front end. It can, however be stroked to over 420 inches, and will easily make 600 HP with the stock block. A 400 will not fit. It is only about 3/4" narrower than a 460, but is a lot shorter. The 351w mavericks should be between 2700-2900 lb, full steel body, stripped for racing. It might go less, depending on the year model. Subtract some for aluminum engine parts (e.g. heads, intake, water pump, radiator...etc). $75 is a good price for that car, if the body is good. Personally, I would rather redo the interior and engine/drivetrain than do bodywork. Yes, it might be easier to build, say, a later mustang with a big-block, but then it wouldnt be a maverick, just another mustang. Hope this helps.
Don't forget that technology has given us some incredible efficency(hence the rice cars) You no longer need a big block for most street applications(of course unless you want one for status) there is little that can't be done with a 302 or 351, stroke it, blow it, inject it, NOS it, be different, go with the maverick, and build yourself a sweet ol small block.
last question maybe I like the weight to hp ratio there not to sound like a dumb*** but is the mavericks stock chasis strong enough to tolerate 600 hp. Oh and it wouldnt be a mustang to common i would probably go with a 70s model lincoln or thunderbird shave off as much weight as possible and stroke the 460 to a 514 because its not everyday that i see cars like this with capability for speed, hell its not everyday that i see a 70s model thunderbird. thanks for the help
Kiser, its quite a project to do a swap like you want. There is a lot of supporting changes that should be done. For that kind of torque, frame subconnectors are in order as well as a tubbed out subframe rear with 9" axle assembly in order to get big enough tires for bite. Then there is brakes and front suspension, Exhaust and all the little things. Remember that this motor is much heavier than a small block. It can be done if you have the resources. Good luck.
