So I am just starting the process of trying to line up a running donor 302 for my 75DBE that I just purchased. If the engine I have is indeed dead -- and I am not sure it is yet -- I will need a donor motor that I can throw in. The family -- though fans of the vehicle -- are already tired of seeing the thing just sit in the driveway. Will be my first engine swap! But good practice for when I get the original engine rebuilt. Anyone cleaning out their garage? One more question -- does it matter if it is a slightly older 302 -- say from a '71 -- or are they relatively interchangeable?

Sorry all! Donor engine may have been a poor choice of words on my part. I am not looking for a free 302 engine, just looking for someone that may have one available that is taking up space and they may want to sell.

A 302 is a 302 is a 302. Sort of. In 1982 or so, Ford switched over to a 50oz internally balanced motor instead of the 28oz. This can cause issues when you start looking at flywheels for manual transmissions or flex plates for the auto. But no significant hurdles that cannot be overcome easily. Generally speaking the 90's motors are a bit more sought after due to the roller cams in them. The early 1970s motors, in stock configuration lack all of the emissions stuff that made later motors dogs. And the 1980s motors aren't really too appealing to most, I suspect.

I have a couple of 302 blocks and heads that are 302 to 302 and a 302! ha
They need rebuilds as well and they are all torn down.

I have one out of a '74 bronco, its been sitting around for a year or 2. It ran when it came out in favor of a 351. I baught it in hopes of building a stroker but that seem so far away. Its complete and I have extra parts also depending on what you may need for your ride. I paid $100 for it and you could have it for the same.

jtsbronc -- Thanks for the offer! Seems like if I can drop that engine into my Bronco just to get me around for a while until I can get the original engine rebuilt I will be in good shape? Are you going to be around on Saturday? Give me a call and we can get something set up. I have an engine cradle if that helps. John -- (719) 660-8266.

Woah -- Those 302 engines are heavier than I thought! Thanks jtsbronc! Now if I can only figure out how to get the thing out of the back of my truck! My 100lb fiance is a great cheerleader, but...

I'll bring over the cherry picker with me tomorrow.

Awesome, thanks sir!

I can't believe the frozen engine is out! Frank is a CRAZY man! Now time to swap parts from the bad engine to the donor 302 that I picked up from jtsbronc. Woo hoo.