Hi everyone, I'm putting a 302 into my 77 two door. I have the engine out of the donor car and all the maverick hardware necessary for the swap. Regarding the engine: What should I do to it before I put it in my car. I've been told to change the bearings and freeze-out caps. Is there anything else? Also, I'd like to increase horsepower. I've been told to get aftermarket intake and carburetor. Can anyone recommend some? And, the engine smoked a little bit from the oil fill after it ran for a while. Otherwise, it ran very well. What does this mean? I appreciate everyone's help, I'm new at this but learning a ton everyday. Thank you, Dan
302 Swap Welcome to the world of automobile mania, I hope you have an enjoyable time as well as a good learning experience. The smoking problem is probably some leakage of compression and oil past the piston rings etc. Depending on the mileage of the engine, if you are going to replace bearings, I would go ahead and do a complete rebuild on it. Especially if you are going to add any aftermarket power equipt, these will only add to the problems of a slightly worn engine. For a good start I would recommend the Edelbrock RPM intake and 600 carb. The complete pkg of intake, carb and matching camshaft is a very good investment for the money. Of course there are a zillion other options but that is a matter of choice on your part. A set of Heddman headers will work fine but like most will have to be installed as you put the engine in the car. If you don't have the double hump crossmember, drivers side exhaust clearance is a problem, but a good fabricator can make it work. I have found out over the years that just installing a used engine without a good rebuild will most times end up costing more in time and money than if the rebuild is done in the beginning. If you so desire, go ahead and install your engine as is and using stock equipt, get the feel of the swap. Then at a later date, with that knowledge, start your horsepower add on's. If you are using an auto trans, should have it done or at least serviced before the swap etc. Time and money will dictate how you want to enter into this project but make it a fun and satisfying thing to do. Yes, there will be problems and frustrating experiences as you go but take them in stride and keep at it. The end results will be worth it. The people on this board will all be glad to help out with their knowledge. Don't be afraid to ask questions, good luck and have fun with the Mav.
