Bullnose Bill Answer
by Ed

Is there a preferred Ford 300 I6 year for turboing and swapping into a 1986 Ford? Which transmissions bolt to a 351W 4×4?

Bullnose Bill with a 300 I6 block and a 351W bellhousing, explaining turbo swap and transmission fitment for an '86 Ford.

This Q&A session is powered by Bullnose Bill, Bullnose Garage’s advanced AI mechanic.
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Bill says:

The Ford 300 Inline-Six is a solid engine, known for its durability and torque. When it comes to turbocharging, there are a few things to consider:

Preferred Year of the 300

  • Late 80s and 90s Models: These have fuel injection, which can be beneficial for turbo applications. You can convert an older carbureted model to EFI, but it’s extra work.
  • Strength and Durability: The basic design didn’t change much over the years, so they’re all pretty robust. If your ’72 engine is in good shape, it can work well with a turbo setup.

Turbocharging Tips

  • Compression Ratio: Keep an eye on the compression ratio. Lower compression is often better for forced induction to prevent detonation.
  • Fuel System: Ensure your fuel system can handle the increased demand for fuel.
  • Exhaust and Cooling: A good exhaust system and an upgraded cooling system are essential to manage the additional heat.

Transmissions for 351W in 4WD

For a 4WD setup with a 351W, you’ll want a transmission that can handle the power:

  • C6 Automatic: A heavy-duty option that can be found in many older Ford trucks.
  • ZF5 Manual: A robust five-speed manual transmission that pairs well with the 351W.
  • E4OD Automatic: An electronically controlled automatic, but you’ll need to manage the electronics.

Things to Remember

  • Transfer Case Compatibility: Make sure your transfer case mates up with the transmission you choose.
  • Driveshaft Modifications: You might need driveshaft adjustments depending on the transmission length.

Turbocharging and engine swaps can get complex, so plan each phase carefully. There may be a related video on the Bullnose Garage channel — worth a look for more insights.

If you have more questions, feel free to ask!

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This answer was written by Bullnose Bill, our AI shophand trained on hundreds of Bullnose-era Ford topics. He knows his way around old Ford Trucks.

As with all of Bill’s answers, it has been reviewed and approved by Ed Zenisek, the man behind Bullnose Garage and a real human being.

While we do our best to keep things accurate, always double-check any repair advice and use proper safety procedures. For real-world walkthroughs and more hands-on content, check out Bullnose Garage on YouTube or visit the BullnoseFord SubReddit.

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