Engine swap - Intake Height Problems

[KiwiGT]

I am currently installing a roush 342 crate engine in my '66, along with a T5. The crate engine has a Canton sump, and a Vic jr / holley street avenger 770cfm, MSD distributor.

On a trial installation the sump is clearing the drag link by about 1/4". Using a 1 3/4" drop base air cleaner, and a 2" filter element, my air cleaner is sitting about 1/2" higher than the fender line, meaning I won't be able to close my hood.

I can't drop the engine lower or I'll hit the drag link. As far as I can see, my options are a bigger drop base on the air cleaner, or changing to a lower height dual plane type mainfold.

Will changing to a dual plane manifold lead to performance or tuning issues given this crate engine was built by Roush as a single plane engine ?

Any other suggestions or knowledge of drop base air cleaners to help me out ?

TIA

 

[BornInAFord]

The center of the stock hood peaks above the fender line more than a half inch--your clearance might be fine, but you'll only know by installing the hood. You might need to use a shorter air cleaner bolt and wing-nut, however. I think going to a shorter intake would lose you some of the power you paid good money to get.
Daniel

 

[CraigMBA]

You can't run the 2" element with an 1 3/4 drop base. The choke will never open past the air cleaner lid. You'll have a two barrel.

I would reinstall the engine and the hood. Then, using Play Doh or some other type of modeling clay, figure out how much clearance you actually have between the carb and the hood with it closed.

 

[fasttback]

Yes the centerline of the hood is above the fender height - you might have enough clearance. I'm using a Victor Jr. on my 302 stroker in my 1966. I do have a Shelby fiberglass hood, but I'm not using a drop base air cleaner = very tight fit.

Beside the air cleaner change, another expensive option is to go with an aftermarket hood with a scoop.

 

[KiwiGT]

The center of the stock hood peaks above the fender line more than a half inch--your clearance might be fine, but you'll only know by installing the hood. You might need to use a shorter air cleaner bolt and wing-nut, however. I think going to a shorter intake would lose you some of the power you paid good money to get.
Daniel

I trial fitted the hood and you're right - there's a good 1/4" to spare - I don't know what I was worried about

Thanks for all the replies and assistance

 

[MustangMatt1966]

I had a similar problem, but used it as a good excuse to get a 2.5 inch cowl hood