What is considered the best all-around engine for an '81- NOT taking into account the tranny? I've currently got a 302 in mine, and am considering going to a C-6 tranny,(and a bigger block!) Should I keep the 302, or get a short block 351/400 to rebuild?

If you're giving consideration to a bigger block, and swapping in a C6, then why not go all the way with a 460?<br><br>I believe Ford used the 400 up til 84, so unless you have the manual and want to switch to an automatic, a 351/400 should bolt right up, but I'm not sure on that.<br><br>If it were me, and it will be someday, I'd go big block

I have the 351m in my '80 and I am deffinatly not lackin for power. I just got the truck a month ago so I am not sure about the tranny cept its a 4 sp manual. My next goal on it is to add a 4 barrel carb and intake.......Can you guys recomend a good one for this yr? Thanks<br><br>Mark<br>Driver of THE BEAST

That 4spd you have is the NP435 - with the granny-lo 1st gear. Now...the intake and carb? I've always been partial to Edelbrock's Performers. I've had them before in past trucks, and while I do't have these on my Bronco NOW, I will when I swap engines

all things being equal go with the 400 cid ! Oh yeah whanmy 351 HO is getting rebuilt bigger stronger more power! <br><br>good luck<br>okiephillip

I have an '83 Bronco that I just rebuilt the 460 in it about a month ago. I was seriously contiplating going with a 302, but time constraints made me keep the big block. Good points to the 460 is lots of torque. <br>I have headers, flowmasters, Q-jet crab, performer aluminum intake, Accel ignition, Edelbrock performer plus cam, and running stock forged pistons with a .020 shave on the the decks to yield a bit more compression. Sounds good, huh? Would you like to see my gas card? 9 mpg. <br>I strongly suggest that you stick with the 302 for mileage reasons and not to mention, the extra room in the engine compartment is worth all the money in the world. The 302 has alot more performance options than the 460 and the power to weight ratio is outstanding. With the stock gearing in the 81 the 302 will perform superbly on and off road.<br>Just a suggestion.<br>Scott