I'm new into the V8 conversion world. Looking through my Jegs & Summit catalogs I see there are a LOT of different aftermarket goodies for the Ford 302/5.0. Almost too many. For my conversion I plan on setting a goal of 400hp, nothing more. I'm getting a 302 (carb version year as of yet unknown) and used conversion kit.

After searching through catologs and Ford forums I see there are a vast array of options to reach my target HP #.

First of all, how can I ID my engine? How do I deterine year of manufacture?

Can I easily convert the 302 to a newer efi 5.0 HO setup by swapping cam, distributor, & intake manifolds? Do I have to swap the lifters, rockers, anything else?

I've read that there's a difference between pre'80 flywheels and post and that that they aren't interchangable (a balancing issue). I'm hoping my block is 80+, if not, are there any sources for aftermarket flywheels, and clutch kits for the pre 80s?

The engine comes without accessories, should/can I convert to the newer serp belt setup? I'd like to add a supercharger in the future & I assume they all work off this setup. Once again looking @ Jegs they have pulley kits available. If I get one of these do I only need the belt, factory tensioner, alt. bracket, reverse water pump, and bolts? What kindof clearance issues are there with using this setup? I remember reading a while ago about someone using an Explorer water pump because it had a shorter snout. Is this true?

More on the cooling system: What CFM electric fan do I need? What size radiator? I've read people getting away with stock radiators & V6? radiators. I live in an area that sees both 20* & 90* temps. I've thought about a Ron Davis that the turbo guys upgrade to. Would this be enough? Should I go for a Corvette or aftermarket universal unit?

For EFI: If it's possible to use aftermarket efi parts on my carbed 302 I'd like to go that route. I'd like to go with a pair of aftermarket aluminum cylinderheads (IE Edelbrock Performer RPM), what intake manifolds are compatible with these? Is there a hood clearance issue with any of the aftermarket EFI intakes (using a flathood). I already have megasquirt installed so I can forget about the efi wiring. I still don't know what I'll be doing about the ignition. Maybe MSnS if it'll work, or an upgraded stock ignition if it wont. Have to look into that.

Header & exhaust: I know I need "shorty" headers. What brand? Do they all need modification? Should I just have a custom set built?

Suspension: The only thing I think I'll need on the suspension side is a new front swaybar, maybe stiffer springs for the coilovers. IPD V8 bars are hard to find. Do I need a stock V6 bar? Anyone look into having a custom bar made

Trans: I have a T5z that should be good until I do the supercharger.

I'll be doing my first full engine teardown & buildup on this project. Is there anything I should be aware of when doing this? Any special gaskets, seals, tools, etc I need? I plan on doing a basically stock rebuild except heads, should I go ahead and upgrade the rods, pistons (maybe lower comp.), any other parts? I don't want to spend lots of $$ on this having expensinve parts put in there I don't really need.

Thanks
Rob