Ford 5.0 with T5 trans upgrade to 351W help needed

[tberube]

I have a Factory 5 MK II Roadster built in 2003 that was built utilizing a 1992 Mustang GT. I have spent the last 6 years upgrading the suspension to the F5 4 lick and coil overs, new interior, added bumpers, etc. the 302 is now leaking and burning a little oil, etc. if I go with a new and complete create engine (302) 347 stroker or a (351w) 427 stroker, then I will be changing out to a new TKX trans with new bell housing, clutch, pressure plate, new yoke my for my cable clutch setup.

I do not plan to use any of the old systems/parts but, the motor mounts, the old short headers, and the remote oil filter (if I still need to use it). I know I will then need modify my exhaust pipes from the end of the header to the beginning of my side pipes. (I have the older shorty headers on backwards, then the curved pipe that goes one into 4. Not the 4 into 4 newer style.

My question from anyone that has done this:
1) will the deck height form the 351w really be that much work to fix the exhaust pipes?
2) will the engine sit higher and cause hood issues? (I will be using the thin oval cobra air cleaner)
3) as I am replacing the entire engine, including belt drive systems and the trans and all hardware, what else will I run into?

[michael everson]

If you go with a 351 based engine you will need new headers. If you go with a 302 based engine you wont but i would definitely upgrade anyways. The new ball headers are much better than what you currently have. If you have the 4 bolt flange side pipes then you wont need to change them. My guess is being a mark 2 you have the 3 bolt which are obsolete. The 351 should fit fine however the older kits did have less engine clearance than the Mark3 and newer.
You will need a new driveshaft too or at least a new bigger yoke.
Mike

[Jeff Kleiner]

If you decide to go with a 351 deck height engine and stick with the old shorty headers the J-pipes will need to be reconfigured. You mention using the existing motor mounts---what are they? If they are OEM Mustang rubber mounts for a hardtop they place the engine higher than OEM convertible mounts or Energy Suspension urethane mounts. With a 351 based engine if you use the lower mounts and don't use a tall intake like the Edelbrock "Air Gap" Performer hood clearance should not be an issue. You mention using the thin oval air cleaner---FYI, if you aren't aware those are pretty restrictive and will be choking some power out of your new engine.

Jeff