351W, 351C, or 351M?

[csim842]

I just bought a 79 F-100 with a 351, according to the VIN #. I am interested in some bolt on performance upgrades since it is pretty slow, however I do not know if it is a W, C, or M. Everyone tells me something different. Is there any physical difference such as the intake shape or number of valve cover bolts or distributor placement or engine color that would determine its identity? It is a stock 2 barrel. Any info would be appreciated.

[97chevyman]

well, the 79 was a M. The best thing you can do for a 351M is headers, new timing chain ( the stock one is 7 degrees retarded for emissions ), and 4 barrell intake. A 4x4 cam would not hurt anything.

[hydrosmith]

The easiest way to tell is the valve covers. A windsor would have valve covers just like a 302.

These engines have a lot of potential. The biggest barrier to performance with these is that they have trouble breathing, extemely restrictive intake and exhaust. Have the heads ported, install an aluminum intake, a recurved distributor, install the timing chain at zero degrees, a 600 cfm 4bbl carb of your choice and a modern grind cam and you will be into 300hp easily. The bottom end is very strong and the oiling system is good so I would leave the bottom end alone.

All of these engines were produced with emissions in mind and are completely identical to the engines installed in cars such as the Cougar and Thunderbird.

[Jason Charette]

send me a pic and Ill let you know K

[who fan]

Best thing to do is find a older 351 Cleveland. They were fast but thirsty. I was in High school in mid 80s my friend had a old 72 LTD (POS!)everyone laughed at the old family car, until he dusted a few camaros, no one could believe it LOL!