What will fit in my 78 Fairmont?

[78Fox]

My car is a 78 Fairmont with 302, C4, factory air conditioning. I'm digging into it deeper each week now.


The block is damaged and needs to be replaced. The block and heads are original to the car, and it has over 100K miles. Notes indicate heads had some work done previously. I want to keep the engine carbureted.


I've been doing research to see what other 302 engines can fit. I'm rather confused. I see listings for 302s that say they fit Bronco, Mustang, etc., but nothing Fairmont-specific.


Here's an example:


https://www.powertrainproducts.net/F...-79-p/1447.htm


Can someone educate me on what fits? I'm doing research and the motor mounts seem to be the thing that allows certain engines to go into certain chassis. And the cross member.


Do I need a 1978 engine with 78 block to fit in with the current motor mounts?


Any help is appreciated.


Thank you!

[richpet]

Any 302 based motor will fit. The oil pan has to be changed to the dual hump fox body style.
The motor itself - any 289-302 from 196x through 1995 will bolt right in with the right oil pan and such.

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[ukravit]

The Mustang is built on the Fairmont platform so when searching for parts look under 79-93 Mustang. A lot of times its the same parts only cheaper to buy.
Not everyone wants a screaming race car and some just want a reliable vehicle , but it may cost less to get a newer model engine that has a bit more power and put your factory intake and accessories on it.

[massacre]

I have a 4.6 DOHC in my Zephyr. It's tight but it fits.

[78Fox]

Thanks everyone.

The oil pan on the car is in great shape, so I think I'm safe there.

Looking at upgrades...there is just so much out there for these engines!

[Patrick Olsen]

Looking at upgrades...there is just so much out there for these engines!

Well, the parts industry has had about 60 years to work on the Windsor series of engines!

[78Fox]

That's the truth!