Originally Posted by SL428

Hello from new member.
I am installing a 1968 Ford 428 engine and four speed transmission in my 1982 SL. The old 380 and auto trans was sold on craigslist and the project has begun. I have stripped all the wiring and computer/automated stuff from the car and cleaned the engine bay. The 428 engine and trans has been mocked-up for fitment - I hope within the week. I finished installing the clutch assembly/master cylinder from an Euro 280 SL today and it was faily easy. I will construct a bracket for the slave cylinder on the ford bell housing after I see where the transmission will sit. I will use the 428 mechanical fuel pump and A/C compressor, install mechanical gauges, mechanical heater/AC controls and etc.
My initial concerns are the clearance around the stearing box and the idle arm/drag link. The engine came out of a mustang and the original castiron headers are tucked in very close to the engine so the exhaust may be OK. Not sure wheather I will use MB power steering pump or ford pump. The engine has a front oil pan sump so I hope very little trimming of the subframe will be required.
Another concern is the rear end ratio. I have not crossed that bridge yet but plan to use biscuit type transmission adaptor at the shorten drive shaft. I will post pictures as soon as I figure out how to do that.