351 Windsor Engine for Sale: Ultimate Guide to Buying a Classic Powerhouse

The 351 Windsor engine remains a beloved icon in the world of American muscle, performance vehicles, and classic car restorations. Originally manufactured by Ford Motor Company in the 1960s, the 351 Windsor (also known as the 351W) continues to command respect among engine builders, racers, and restoration enthusiasts alike. If you’re searching for a 351 Windsor engine for sale, this comprehensive guide will help you understand its history, features, specs, and where to find the best deals in today’s market.

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🔧 What Is a 351 Windsor Engine?

The 351 Windsor is a member of Ford’s small-block V8 engine family and was introduced in 1969. Named after the Windsor Engine Plant in Ontario, Canada, the engine was designed to offer more displacement than the 289 and 302 engines while maintaining the small-block platform.

Key features of the 351 Windsor:

• Displacement: 5.8L (351 cubic inches)

• V8 Configuration

• Cast iron block and heads (stock models)

• Overhead valve (OHV) design

• 2-bolt or 4-bolt main bearing caps (depending on year and build)

• Carbureted or later EFI (Fuel Injection) versions

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🛠️ Why Choose the 351 Windsor Engine?

There are several reasons why the 351 Windsor engine remains a top pick among automotive enthusiasts:

1. Affordable Power

The 351W offers a fantastic power-to-cost ratio, especially when compared to modern crate engines or LS swaps.

2. Easy to Modify

Thanks to a wide aftermarket support, it’s easy to find performance upgrades, cam kits, aluminum heads, stroker kits, and intake manifolds.

3. Strong Reliability

Known for its durability and strength, the 351 Windsor is a long-lasting option for everything from daily drivers to street-strip builds.

4. Versatile Applications

Commonly found in:

• Ford Mustangs (1969–1996)

• Ford Broncos (1970s–1996)

• Ford F-Series Trucks

• Mercury Cougars

• Ford LTDs

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⚙️ 351 Windsor Engine Specifications

Here are the general specs for the stock 351 Windsor engine (variations exist depending on year and configuration):

Note: Aftermarket builds or stroked versions can easily exceed 500+ HP.

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💰 How Much Does a 351 Windsor Engine Cost?

Pricing for a 351 Windsor engine for sale varies widely depending on condition, configuration, and whether it’s rebuilt, used, or a performance crate version.

Pro Tip: Buying a used 351 Windsor may save money upfront, but rebuilt or crate versions often provide greater longevity and better warranties.

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🔍 Where to Find a 351 Windsor Engine for Sale

Looking for the best places to buy a 351 Windsor engine? Here are your top options:

1. Online Retailers

Many performance retailers and engine shops offer new and rebuilt 351W engines:

• Summit Racing

• JEGS

• Blueprint Engines

• ATK High Performance

• Ford Performance Parts

2. eBay Motors

eBay is a treasure trove for used 351 Windsor engines, both complete and short blocks. Always verify seller reviews and return policies.

3. Craigslist & Facebook Marketplace

Local sellers often list old engines for cheap, but always inspect in person and ask for casting numbers to confirm authenticity.

4. Engine Rebuilders

Shops that specialize in classic Ford engines often offer better quality control and warranty-backed builds. Look for reputable machine shops in your area.

5. Junkyards & Salvage Yards

The cheapest route, but also the riskiest. If you can pull your own engine, you may walk away with a 351W for under $1,000 — just be prepared to rebuild it.

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🔄 Rebuilding vs. Buying a Crate 351 Windsor Engine

Should you rebuild an old engine or buy a crate engine? Here’s a quick comparison:

Verdict: If you’re a skilled mechanic or want a DIY project, rebuilding is fun and cost-effective. But for plug-and-play reliability and performance, go with a crate 351 Windsor engine.

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🔥 Popular 351 Windsor Stroker Engine Builds

Want even more power? The 351W block can be stroked for serious performance:

🔹 393 Stroker

• Uses a 3.85” stroke crank

• 400–500 HP possible

• Great for street/strip use

🔹 408 Stroker

• Longer stroke crank & custom rods

• 450–600+ HP builds

• Popular for drag racing and performance street builds

🔹 427 Stroker

• Near big-block power in small-block size

• Requires aftermarket block or heavy modifications

• Serious power for racing

These stroker kits are widely available from companies like Scat, Eagle, and Coast High Performance.

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🧠 Things to Check Before Buying a 351 Windsor

Whether buying used or rebuilt, do your due diligence:

• ✅ Casting Numbers: Ensure it’s a genuine 351W block, not a 302.

• ✅ Crank and Rods: Check for wear, balance, and stroke.

• ✅ Compression Test: If buying used, test each cylinder.

• ✅ Oil Pressure: Low pressure may mean internal wear.

• ✅ Intake and Exhaust Compatibility: 351W has a different deck height than the 302, so some parts won’t fit.

• ✅ Warranty: Always ask if one is included, especially for rebuilt or crate engines.

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🚗 Best Vehicles for a 351 Windsor Swap

Looking to install a 351 Windsor into a project car? Here are some great candidates:

• 1965–1973 Ford Mustang

• 1970s Ford Bronco (restomod builds)

• F-100, F-150, and F-250 pickups

• Classic Mercury Cougar

• Ford Fairlane, Torino, or Ranchero

• Fox-body Mustangs (with some modification)

Many hot rodders also use the 351 Windsor in kit cars, drag racers, and even off-road trucks.

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🔧 Popular Aftermarket Upgrades for the 351W

Want to unlock more horsepower? These upgrades are easy wins:

1. Aluminum Cylinder Heads (e.g., AFR, Trick Flow, Edelbrock)

2. Performance Camshaft

3. Roller Rockers

4. Holley 4-barrel Carburetor or EFI Conversion

5. High Flow Intake Manifold

6. Long Tube Headers

7. MSD Ignition System

8. High-Output Oil Pump

9. Stroker Kit (393/408)

10. Electric Fan & High-Performance Radiator

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🧾 FAQs – 351 Windsor Engine for Sale

❓ What vehicles came with the 351 Windsor?

• 1969–1996 Ford trucks and Broncos

• Select Ford Mustangs (1969–1973)

• Full-size cars like LTDs, Fairlanes, and Cougars

❓ How can I tell if an engine is a 351W?

Look for casting numbers such as D9AE-6015-AA and the larger deck height (9.5”) compared to a 302. The 351W also has wider intake manifolds and a unique firing order.

❓ Is the 351 Windsor better than the 302?

The 351 Windsor offers more displacement and torque, making it better for torque-heavy or high-horsepower applications.

❓ Can I convert my 302 to a 351 Windsor?

Not directly — the blocks are different, but many accessories are interchangeable.

❓ What is the max HP from a 351 Windsor?

With aftermarket parts and stroker kits, builds can exceed 600 HP or more, depending on compression, fuel system, and tuning.