[onepot]

Hello,

Can anyone tell me the difference between the 302 windsor and the 302 mexican? Ive heard that the mexican block has heaver main caps is this true?
Would the mexican block be a better base for a performance build up?
Cheers.
Brian.
Weipa Australia

[crazy larry]

if your looking at the end of the block, the water pump end, there will be two 'humps' , one on either side of the block, to the left and right sides respectively. if that totally confused you, i can scan a pic later, when i get off work. my understanding is that the mexican blocks have a higher nickel content, but are subject to poor quality controls, ie poorly cast blocks, passages, etc..... i've not used one so i can't say one way or the other on quality. i believe they also have "hecho en mexico" cast in the lifter valley.

i haven't heard they had heavier caps..

[mstngjoe]

Most of the Ford/Mustang boards toss this subject around on a regular basis. Some believe it's a stronger block & some don't.

I weighed my bare block with main caps & bolts and came up with about 135#, FWIW.

The Mexican 302 does indeed have beefy main caps. Almost identical to the 289HP caps.

And yes the front of the block has these two unused bosses or "knobs" if you will.

And Larry is correct about the lifter valley casting.

Some will dispute it's high performance value and/or casting quality.

I don't get into those issues anymore. Just too many differing opinions and "personal" experiences to deal with.

If you're looking for a guaranteed high strength block, look at the Ford 4-bolt main blocks (#R-302) or Dart 302.

[onepot]

Thanks Guys

I have two 302 engines, by your descriptions one of them is definatly a Mexican block, the other one does not have the extra bosses on the front of the block, they both need rebuilding just trying to decide which one, guess I will wait for a few more opinions before I decide.
Cheers.
Brian.

[lluciano77]

Sell them both and buy a late model roller cam block. You can't beat the one piece seal and the roller cam potential.