npatel1105

I have a 68 Mustang convertible with a V6 200. Should I change it out for a 302? Obviously original is worth more but what does changing it over change? Also I currently have the 4 lug drums, does doing the disc conversion change or ad value.

Al Newman

Twenty years ago changing engines would have potentially hurt the value of the car, but, in today's environment, I honestly think the V8 will add to the value, especially when adding V8 5 lug wheels and tires and possibly front disk brakes. I am assuing you have an original I6, not a V6, which would represent a change, anyway.
Best,
Al

rmodel65

its a huge swap...really youre better off selling and buying a v8 car...basically the entire drive train and suspension and brake front and rear have to be changed out..

fastbackford351

Keep it a sixer & enjoy the awesome gas mileage.

rmodel65

id definitely rock a sixxer right now with nearly 4$ a gallon gas

lucasp

its an I6 not a v6, it all depends on your mechanical capabilities if you are willing to tackle the job of a swap. I just swapped my I6 to a 302 and so far its been a hoot and a half, loving the challenge (with the help of my 17 year old boy). check out my thread!

here is the link of our build so far.
https://mustangforums.com/forum/clas...ix-inside.html

crunchyskippy

I'm with Lucasp. I'm very happy with my conversion. It took me longer than initially planned, but I'm very proud of the result.

But I also have to agree with Rmodel65 that it might have been cheaper to simply sell mine and purchase a V8. What is tough to compare is the fact that I have new suspension, new engine, new brakes, new wheels, exhaust, etc... No telling what condition the equipment would have been in if I sold and purchased a V8.

But you have a convertable, which may not be cheaper to sell and re-buy a V8.

Do you have the skills and resources for a conversion?

npatel1105

I have some skills mechanically, This was a project car so I don't might the wrench time. I was hoping maybe to do it stages.

Al Newman

With the 68 Mustang, all you have to do with the front suspension is to install V8 hubs, back plates, drums and brakes, and coil springs. Nothing else about the front suspension needs changing. As for the rear end, simply change the complete 6 cylinder axle assembly with a 67-70 V8 Mustang axle assembly, and possibly U-joints. Of course, you will need 5 lug rims and tires.
Under the hood, you will need motor mounts and brackets, a new radiator, a V8 accelerator pedal and linkage assembly, a V8 flywheel, starter, bell housing, and exhaust system. May seem like a lot, but not as bad as 65-66 Mustangs. Other items needed will depend on what motor you use and what accessories it will have with it.
Best,
Al

120mm

Al is correct. 68s are the easiest to convert to V8.

Plus, you can do it in stages. I'm replacing my front brakes, so it's too easy to convert to five log fronts. And you might as well replace the rear axle while you're at it.

I plan on then driving it for awhile, until I can get the exact engine I want.

And if I stay with a stock-ish small block and put in an AOD, I won't lose much or anything in fuel mileage. BTW, the fuel mileage argument is specious; the difference between 15 and 25 mpg a year is so small as to not really matter in the scheme of things. If you can afford to wrench on vintage mustangs, you can afford 15 mpg driving.