New forum member here. I'm considering buying a 78 F150 Ranger with the 351M engine. What is involved in getting rid of the smog controls? As an antique vehicle, it won't need to pass smog tests in my area, so I'd like to get rid of the power-robbing stuff.

Another option running around in my brain (if I end up with this truck) is to swap out the engine for a built 302. Would the frame engine mounting points line up for a 302W?

Thanks,
Cobradavid

 

to put a 302 in you will also need a different transmission if automatic, or bell housing if manual. the 302 and 351M do not share the same bell bolt pattern.
to eliminate the EGR on a 351M, the easiest way is to switch the intake for a 4 barrel manifold and carb and just put an EGR block off plate on it, or get a non EGR manifold.
the advantage of dumping the 2 barrel for the 4 barrel is once you open the exhaust up to 3 inch like the "Y" pipe is and advance the timing a bit it will run much better and get better gas mileage.

 

The cam is lazy on a smog engine too. might benifit from buying a 'kit" that includs cam, intake and carb. Some kits even come with chrome valve covers and a chrome air cleaner

 

Same engine perches aka towers/stands/supports: 1969/79 F100 302; 1975/79 F150 302; 1977/79 F100/350 351M/400 2WD

 

Having experienced this swap, it is still not one that I would contemplate.
If the same amount of money is spent on each "Built" engine the larger engine will deliver better performance.

Just my aught two.