Can I use 1974 351W heads on a 1985 351W? Are the accessory bolt patterns the same?
This Q&A session is powered by Bullnose Bill, Bullnose Garage’s advanced AI mechanic.
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Hey there! Great to hear you’re working on a 351W project. Installing 1974 351W heads on an 1985 351W is a popular upgrade, and it can definitely boost performance. But let’s dive into the details!
Compatibility
- Head Bolt Pattern: The head bolt pattern on the 351W hasn’t changed, so the heads will bolt right up to your block without any issues.
- Casting Differences: However, be aware that the 1974 heads (especially the earlier models) may have smaller combustion chambers compared to the later versions. This could impact your compression ratio, so make sure to check that out before you commit.
Accessory Bolts
As for the accessory bolt pattern, the front of the heads generally stayed consistent through the years. That means you should be able to use your existing accessory brackets and hardware. However, there can be slight variations depending on the exact year and any modifications made to the engine, so it’s always good to double-check.
Additional Considerations
- Intake Manifold: If you’re planning to use an aftermarket intake, ensure it’s compatible with the older head design.
- Valves and Springs: You might want to consider the condition of the valves and springs in the 1974 heads, as they may require a refresh.
If you’re looking for more insights or tips, you might want to check out the Bullnose Garage YouTube channel. They often cover engine swaps and modifications that could give you some visual guidance.
Happy wrenching, and let me know if you have any more questions!
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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.
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