Another question for you guys here ............ Current 1970 Econoline project has 300 cid straight six with manual tranny, the parts van has a 302 engine with manual tranny in it, so .............. I am giving serious consideration to engine swap while we are at this stage of the work on the van, but would like to hear constructive comments as to the issues we might be facing to make such conversion happen and what do we need to watch out for ? All comments appreciated in advance ............... Thank you ! Great job on this site !!!

 

Should not be too tough, you have all the parts

 

I am curious what are the miles accrued on each engine and their condition. Myself, all things being equal, I would rather have the 300. As good as the 302 is, I believe the 300 is better and more durable.I don't believe there would be much gained in performance having the 302 in your van to make it a worthwhile project..

 

I agree with both of the above !
Condition of each could weigh heavily on your decision.

 

I have a 302 in my current Ford van, but I had a 1980 Ford Box truck that had a 300 and made it to 340,000 miles without a tear down. It was destroyed in a fire or I would still have it. The 300 only got about 12-14 MPG while the 302 gets about 18. When you figure that the box truck was much heavier, it is a wash. So, whichever seems to be the best if you don't intend to rebuild one of them.