Five-Oh fanatics: Saleen now offering 302 crate engines

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We're rather pleased that Saleen has seen fit to offer their excellent 302 cubic inch V8 as a crate engine. Having driven several Mustangs equipped with the powerplant , we feel qualified to say that this is an engine more than worthy of carrying on the 5.0 legacy. If you want take-no-prisoners style horsepower, consider opting for the supercharged model, which we found almost too powerful for every day use in the Saleen S302E Mustang. Perhaps a more streetable choice would be the naturally-aspirated version that we sampled in the Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang.

Regardless of your choice of induction, the base engine will have started life as one of Ford's 4.6 liter modular blocks. After being bored and stroked to the requisite five liters, the block receives bigger injectors, ported aluminum heads, performance camshafts, forged-aluminum pistons, forged-steel connecting rods and a forged-steel crank. Power levels range from 390 to 580 horsepower, depending on your choice of options. You can peruse the complete press release after the break.

[Source: Saleen]

PRESS RELEASE

Saleen Introduces New High Performance 302 'Crate' Engines

TROY, Mich., April 28 -- Saleen is offering, for the first time in company history, its high performance 302 cubic inch (5.0L) premium crate engines for sale through its Speedlab Aftermarket Division. The engine will be available in either short block or long block varieties to satisfy the most seasoned of engine builders and power enthusiasts.

Saleen offers the same OEM quality, durability and precision-built engines used today in Saleen built performance vehicles. The legendary 302 engine has already made its rightful return to the performance stage in Saleen product offerings such as the Parnelli Jones Edition, Heritage Series, and the new 25th Anniversary Sterling Edition. Consumers now have the opportunity to upgrade their existing vehicle with a high performance Saleen 302 crate engine.

"This addition to our aftermarket product lineup was a no brainer," says Carlos Duran, Manager of Saleen's Speedlab Aftermarket Division, "This engine is currently at high production rates, which allow for quick delivery to Saleen Speedlab consumers. We want to provide our customers with the utmost in confidence relating to this new line of products."

PERFORMANCE

The 302 cubic inch crate motors (available in both long and short blocks) are available for naturally-aspirated or supercharged applications. Based on the 4.6L 3V Ford aluminum block, the entire internal package is upgraded with premium Saleen engineered forged pistons, rods, crankshaft and valve train components, and camshaft that will exceed the requirements of even the professional engine builder. The basis of our performance data is from the current 2008 Heritage Saleen platforms. Our packages will range from 390hp (normally-aspirated 302 engines) to 580hp (supercharged 302 engines) using existing EPA certified induction and exhaust systems. Furthermore, these packages can be further upgraded with 6 speed transmissions, high performance clutch/flywheels, higher performance rear end differentials, Watts link rear suspension kits and, of course, superchargers.

"We are very excited to put the 302SC long block engine into the drag racing circuit this year under the hood of the Saleen Speedlab/JDM Engineering performance drag car", states Michael Lingo, Vice President of Operations & General Manager - Aftermarket Division, "We are planning to place the vehicle on display throughout the season; proving the durability and reliability of the Saleen motors in the most demanding environment imaginable." The 302 crate engines will launch in May, 2008 and will be available for purchase direct from the factory or through select Saleen Speedlab dealers. Call today at 800-888-8945 to speak directly with your Saleen Speedlab specialist.