T-5 for 302I read the letter from Darin Paulisick in Beyond the Basics about converting from an automatic to T-5 five-speed manual. I just purchased a '68 fastback with the J-code 302 and a C4 automatic. I gather that what goes for the 351W would work with this 302. The one thing that caught my attention was the flywheel. Will any pre-'82 flywheel from a 302 work? I'm unfamiliar with the balance issues of small-block Fords and need some help. Also, if I used the complete engine/transmission from a late-model Mustang ('94-'95) with the EFI, what changes do I need to make to the gas tank and fuel system?Dennis OuellettePittsboro, IN
You are correct; what goes for the 351W will also work for a 302. All 351 Windsor engines and any small-block made before 1982 utilized a 28-ounce external-balance flywheel. The 5.0L engine or 302 manufactured after 1981 utilized a 50-ounce flywheel that isn't compatible with any small-block produced before 1982 and is unique to the 5.0 engine.
The EFI fuel system differs from a carbureted system in that it requires a high-pressure fuel pump, a fuel-return circuit from the engine to the fuel tank, and a high-capacity fuel filter. An auxiliary frame-mounted fuel pump and a stock Ford EFI fuel filter can easily be mounted and plumbed into your existing fuel system. The return line is straightforward since it can run along the frame rack next to the stock fuel line and enter the upper part of the fuel tank through a fitting silver-soldered to either the stock fuel-sending unit or the filler neck inside the trunk. Many Mustang parts vendors have developed the fuel pump and filter along with necessary fuel-filter fittings, as this swap is popular. All the parts are available from a local auto supply store if you want to fabricate and design your own system.
Header DilemmaI have a '65 Mustang coupe with a 289, Top Loader four-speed, and a Lakewood bellhousing. I'm planning to install Patriot tri-Y headers. Some suppliers state that it may be necessary to modify the headers to clear the clutch equalizer bar. I'm using a Hi-Po equalizer bar. Will the headers fit without modification? Also, if modification is required, will the ceramic coating withstand it? The headers are also available with nickel coating. Which should I use?Bruce Pellow Via the Internet
The tri-Y headers should clear the Hi-Po equalizer bar without any problem since the tri-Ys were originally designed for Hi-Po engines. But installing headers on any Mustang requires a clearance check between the lower arm of the equalizer bar and the header tubes. The pivot for the rod to the bellhousing fork tends to interfere. The Hi-Po equalizer bar has a different shape and pivot point than its standard 289 counterpart in order to obtain more clearance. Generally, any interference is slight and the equalizer bar can usually be reshaped to clear the header. I would not modify the header tube except for a small dent. Instead, modify the equalizer bar.
Header coatings are a good idea. They add to the appearance of the headers and also prevent rust and corrosion. The coatings do not tolerate much modification to the tubes, so limit those types of mods. The type of coating is your choice. However, any coating will require periodic cleaning to maintain the appearance.
Where's A Wiper Switch?I acquired a '65 fastback in 1996 for my son and, of course, myself. The car is a daily driver. Our wiper switch went south and created some problems when it rains, which isn't often here in West Texas. But we need to replace the switch and have tried several vendors, with no luck. I'm looking for the five-prong-type wiper switch that's a single-speed without the washer. The part number is C5ZZ-17A553-B. I really need this part.Rick HernandezEl Paso, TX