How can you tell if you have a 1968 302HO engine or not?

Answer 1

The 302 HO was not manufactured in 1968 so yours cannot be an HO. It was made in 1969-70 only.

Clay,

That is half correct. I appreciate the effort and response. However the engine you are referring to is the 4V 302 "G" code know as the "Boss" 302 used in the 69 & 70 Mustangs and Cougar Eliminators and a few unintended 71 models. I owned one of each in my younger years. I am referring to the 4V 302 "J" code HI-PO that was used in the Shelby GT350 and filtered into a few Torinos and Mustangs in 1968. One version was a "Tunnel Port" 8V 302 "G" code used primarily on the race track. I have also received answers stating that the firing order for an 302 HO is the same as a 351 Windsor, however that is for post 1982 302 engines. My dilemma is that I have found a 1968 Torino GT fastback that says 302 HI-PO on it but I have no idea how to determine that it is indeed what it says. Ford was known to have used their engines during the transition from one model year to another. If any very knowledgeable Ford Man from the late sixties is out their and could help me, I would be extremely grateful!

Of course you are correct but the 4V 302 is not the HO which you asked about. The 4V engine was called the Hi-Po by some people but I have never considered it a Hi-Po and neither did Ford. The only true Hi-Po is the 1963-67 solid lifter 289s. That is why I answered the way I did. However I do see your point. As to your question the 4V had 2 bolt mains, and an Autolite 4300 carb. It also has a 10.1 to 1 compression ratio and requires premium fuel. There is a Mexican built 302 for Ford trucks which is easily identified by Mexico stamped in the lifter area of the block. Hope this helps you some.

Clay,

Again I thank you for your response and agree. I find it very hard to consider a 250 HP engine to be referred to as a "HI-PO". I have read so much info on how to identify the engine in the Torino as being a High Performance 302. I don't own this car, but it has 4V 302"HO" stickers on the engine that appear to be original. Could be an emblem transplanted from a post 1982 ford.

Thanks Again!