I have a 2000 model 302 out of an Explorer with the GT40P heads. I am planning on putting this engine in my son's 71 Grabber Maverick. Obviously, the exhaust is going to be a pain. I am wondering if my early model 302 heads will work on the later model 302 so that I can find a set of headers to fit the chassis. Pardon my lack of knowledge, that's why I'm here...to learn. This is our first domestic V8.
Your early heads will fit the newer 5.0L but as Frank points out, you may want to step up to a far more efficient set of aftermarket heads.
Agree with that. Drink cheaper beer, take the empties in and save your money for good heads. You'll never regret it. MD
Yes, they would as long as they are within my son's budget. The car has been down now for a few months because his original 302 began using as much oil and water as it did gasoline. So, I sidelined the car, found this 2000 302 from an Explorer, purchased it for him, along with a new 650 Holley, Weiand intake manifold, and new HEI distributor package. He just wants to get the car going and I understood that the engine from the Explorer had the GT40 heads, but turns out it was a later model, with way less mileage, but has the P heads. Now, the exhaust manifolds/headers are the hurdle. The more I've read, it would be easier to switch to a GT40 head setup, but just thought that I could take his heads to a machine shop and let them work some magic then it would easy to find a set of headers. Am I thinking right?
If you type in GT40P in the search section you can get more details on the issue. Not familiar with what a machine shop can do to fix the problem but some guys have gotten by with shorty spark plugs and a BFH used on the headers. The issue is in the driver's side. The passenger side is no problem. GT40 heads would be much better if you can get them cheap. MD
I don't think you mean modify GT40P heads?? They are what they are... Even if you spend money freshening a set of GT40, you'll be far ahead of fooling with the P heads... BTW the P do make good door stops...
What I was meaning was to take the heads off of the 71 302 to the shop to have them worked. Then mount them to the later model 302
If you would be paying to rebuild a set of older cast iron heads, I think most folks would recommend you buy a set of modern aluminum heads instead. MD
The $$$ you will spend on re-working the old 302 heads will approach the cost of a set of after market heads. Better off in the long range to pony up for the good stuff now. Casting pearls before swine comes to mind with the old school heads.
See, that's what I'm seeing here, the longer I hang out. All of you just trying to help folks. Really appreciate the input. I've found a set of GT40 heads that are reworked with a TrickFlow spring kit for what seems like a good price ($300 for the pair). Would you all think that is a move in the right direction?
For a good set of GT40 heads with upgraded springs that a screamin deal... The springs are probably 1/2 - 2/3 of the price...
GT 40s' is a good way to go...Get the specs on the springs though. They may be too much for your existing cam...Even the stock roller cam springs were too much for a stock flat tappet hyd cam. How much$$$ is he asking for the heads???
He's gonna use the heads on a 'Splorer engine, those are roller, unless they are a all out race spring will be fine... I replaced the ones on my Trick Flow heads in the Bird with the upgraded package, no issues using stock roller lifters & TF cam...
