Engine Angle

Hope I am not driving everyone nuts with these questions but here's another. I removed a 302 from my 64 and installed a Heidts independent suspension system which utilizes a crossmember. The problem is I didn't take notice to the angle that the engine sits in relation to the frame. The carb on my new engine sits at a 4 degree angle in relation to the block so can I assume the angle of the engine should be at 4 degrees to provide a level carb in the car? Would someone like to take a shot at this or look at your V-8 and see what you can tell? Is it that important? Thanks and have a fantastic day. Larry

Although the carb angle is important, what is most important is the angle of the engine in relationship to the rear end. A typical classic Ford has an angle of 3 degrees tilt down to the rear. Your rear end will tilt up 3 degrees.

Race cars that run leaf springs will often have the engine tilted down 1-2 degrees more to compensate for the rear end axle wrap under heavy acceleration.

You can get a magnetic angle finder from Summit Racing. Install the engine at 3-4 degrees and as far to the rear as you can get it. You can then shim the rear end to match.

Thanks very much Pat. So if I am understanding this correctly the engine, transmission and rear end all have to be at the same angle and line up? Larry

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Originally Posted by BlackFalcon

Thanks very much Pat. So if I am understanding this correctly the engine, transmission and rear end all have to be at the same angle and line up? Larry

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They don't need to line up. They just need to be at the same angle. Imagine a line through the engine/tranny and the one through the rear end. These lines should be parallel.

Hate to say it but now I am confused. The engine and transmission will be pointing down at the aft end 3 degrees. The rear end will be pointing up 3 degrees?

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Originally Posted by BlackFalcon

Hate to say it but now I am confused. The engine and transmission will be pointing down at the aft end 3 degrees. The rear end will be pointing up 3 degrees?

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That is correct. I put this diagram together to give you an idea of what it will look like.

You need to keep the two angles set so that the angles run parallel.