SAAC Forum

I wanted to send a quick shout out to the forum.  I have finished the rebuild and install of my original 302 4V J-Code engine just like it was originally (I guess it was a good thing I kept all of the original parts for the last 43 years after all :-) ).  During the process I did a lot of research on the similarities between the J-Code and the GT350 and asked a lot of questions.  You guys were great at helping and answering my questions.  Special nod to Craig Conley at Paradise Wheels for setting up and providing the Paxton Supercharger correct for the period.  And to Dave Hunt @ Hunt's Machine in Albany NY (who did the short block and engine machining) and the guys at Cylinder Head Specialties here in NC (who restored my original heads).  I've attached a picture of the engine installed and one with the '68 next to my wife's '07 GT/CS.  I think it's time for a Shelby project this time! :-)

Very cool to hear from another J-Code coupe owner.  I've been doing a lot of comparing.  I liked the Performance SST option but they are out of stock and don't have any more builds upcoming.  So the Doug headers are what I will be going with.  Glad to hear you had a good experience with them.

I looked at the Marti site but didn't see that they offered coils.  I am probably going with the unit sold on the Cobranda site but Mustangs Unlimited has one as well.  Truthfully it's not a concourse build so I probably shouldn't get too wound up but would like it to be at least in the right direction. :-)  Thanks everyone for the responses.

Keith, that looks like a good option.  I could even get them jet-hot ceramic coated for heat control and still come out with less cost than the Doug's option.  Thanks for the lead.

I am nearing the end of the 302/4V rebuild.  9.5:1 compression, date code correct block, orig 53cc chamber volume heads.  Adding a correct Paxton supercharger with 4777 Holly from Paradise Wheels.  Replacing my original J-Code intake with a S2MS-9424-A.  I am trying to find a quality set of Ceramic coated, Tri-Y headers and wonder if anyone has a recommendation.  From my research seems Doug's Headers are well reviewed but they are on the more costly side.  Doug Thorley is also pretty pricey.  I see that Scott Drake's are about half the price and Tony Branda has a set in the same price range as the Drake's.  Not sure of the mfg but they look a lot like the Scott Drake layout from the photo.  I tend to think you get what you pay for, so leaning toward Doug's Headers.  Thoughts?

Good info.  Thanks!

Thanks Bigfoot.  It looks like www.mustangsunlimited.com has several of items that they claim are concours correct.  Wires, coil, etc.  Any experience with that vendor?

Hello all,

I was reading a post in the Dec timeframe regarding '68 spark plug wires; specifically what would be correct, sleeve or no sleeve.  Good info.  I am in the process of rebuilding my J-Code and many of you have provided a lot of good information / help.  Thanks for that.  My question this time is if anyone has recommendations for a good source of good quality, correct, ignition parts.  Specifically spark plug wires but also coil, etc.  I visited Mansfield site but he's pretty specific to the big blocks.  I am wondering if there is a good resource like that for small block.

Thanks again.  Greg P.

Hello Tony.  If you still have the carb I would like to see some pictures.  Thanks.  Greg P  greg.patterson@porticos.net

Thanks again everyone.  Great information and very helpful.  I think I have the numbers under control now.  BTW, what was the recall done for?  Were there defective C8ZE intakes or was it for a performance upgrade?

Great feedback.  So to be clear:

Coral Snake:  Are you saying that the C8ZE intake was also used on the GT350 prior to the recall?  So that would be correct or depending on the recall kit it could also be the S7MS or the S2MS?

All.  What is the correct cam part number for the '68 J Code?

I've been researching the difference between the 1968 J Code 302 4V engine and the GT350 Shelby engine.  Compiling casting numbers, etc. Based on my research and feedback / website links (like MustangTek and Coral Snake sites) from some of my SAAC friends, it appears the only difference is the intake.  J Code has the C8ZE iron casting while the GT350 has the S7MS aluminum.  Can anyone else confirm or refute this?  The one item that I really can't seem to find is information on the camshaft (for either engine).  Original part number, lift, duration, etc.  Can anyone shed some light on this for me?

Thanks, Greg P.

Thank you all for your input.  I read thru the price guide link.  Very useful.  I feel better about my options.  I'm leaning towards the '69 or '70 GT350 so as some of you have indicated there are a lot of drive train options for at least getting the correct year / date codes.  I'm still in research mode but looking forward to learning more and taking that step.

I have been evaluating some '69 Shelby project cars but they don't have the original drive train.  Some have the right equip (say 3:00/1 posi) but wrong year and not even from a mustang.  These project cars are not cheap but I wonder what the impact is to the value because of these incorrect drive trains?  My desire is to build and enjoy but the reality is that even if I do the work there is real cost associated with the build.  Can anyone weigh in on the impact to the value for an incorrect drive train?  And if numbers matching isn't an option, is it worth getting '69 mustang parts instead?  Thank you.  Greg P.