302 5.0 HO Heads

[Dalinkwent]

Hello,

The driver's side head on my 91 Thunderbird recently starting making a loud ticking noise whenever it idles at warm temperatures so I've decided to just replace both of them.. and was wondering if you can put 351 heads on a 302 ho? I know that's what makes the difference between a Chevy 305 and a 350 but I don't know if ford works the same way. another question is, Is their any spacial tools needed to replace them or are just the average Joe's garage tools needed? Any help or advice would be appreciated. Thanks

[97Bird]

The 351 heads will fit a 302 but you need special bolts that Ford used to make for the swap because the 351 bolts are a larger size. They or someone else may still make them because this was a popular swap. I don't know for sure if the old 302 heads are the same as the 5.0s. Why not just find what the ticking sound is and fix it. A collapsed lifter, worn rocker or bent push rod are much easier to replace then two heads, takes less time and is a lot cheaper! Wrenches, sockets and a prybar to break the heads free are what you need to replace the heads. First change your oil and use a Motorcraft filter to see if the ticking stops. It would be a good idea to check your oil pressure with an accurate guage when the engine is at operating temperature, also.