This is a great site. I have just register but been reading for quite some time.

I have a 1995 F-150 with a 302 and auto transmission.
I am the original owner and do not want to get another truck.
Here's the issue. I've now have a small farm and need to haul a 18 foot steel trailer with my tractor or hay on it. The 302 just does not have what it takes to do the job with ease.
My question is, what engine would be acceptable to install that would button up to the current auto transmission?
I really would appreciate any words of wisdom?

Thanks much,
Rick West

 

Welcome to the site Rick..

So, what weights are you looking at hauling or towing?

 

6-8 thousand lbs. max.

 

Generally a swap can create State emissions/equipment testing issues. What state? Depending on the level of inspection and testing, it may be a stumbling point.

That said, a 302HO would be a pretty much direct replacement with some parts swapped over. Used to be quite a few donors available at the dismantling yards at decent prices. Add in a chip, intake, exhaust and would wake up the 302 displacement range. Or, build the current engine for some extra power/torque.

351 was optioned in 95 for the 150. More work to do the swap, more work=more cost, not a huge power improvement, a bit more torque, but tended to swill fuel a tad more, noticeably over the 302. Either would be an improvements over a base 302, and an easier swap to 351 with a donor truck standing by ;-) if your now towing heavy regularly, an add on trans cooler will hep protect and extend the service life. Heat is the enemy!

Depending on State regs, getting the swap under the radar would be my (CA) first concern..

 

I'm in SC, state reg is no issue.
I have a trans and oil cooler already installed.
I may just look into building my current eng.