BluePrint BP302CTC 302 Cruiser Crate Engine – 361 HP Small Block Ford

The Ultimate 302 Cruiser Crate Engine for Ford Street Performance

The BluePrint BP302CTC 302 Cruiser crate engine delivers reliable, street-friendly performance in a complete, dressed package that’s ready to transform your classic Ford, Mustang, hot rod, or custom build . As part of our extensive Ford Windsor collection, this 5.0L/302 cubic inch V8 produces an impressive 361 horsepower and 334 lb-ft of torque—making it the ideal choice for any street enthusiast or daily driver looking to unleash Ford performance . Whether you’re restoring a classic Mustang, upgrading a daily driver, or building a weekend cruiser, this BluePrint 302 crate engine delivers the power, reliability, and unmistakable small-block Ford character that enthusiasts demand.

What Makes the BluePrint 302 Cruiser the Ultimate SBC Crate Engine?

The BP302CTC is engineered specifically for daily drivers and cruising applications . Unlike high-strung performance engines that sacrifice drivability for peak power, this 302 cruiser is designed to work seamlessly with power brakes, stock torque converters, and stock gearing . It produces up to 16 inches of vacuum and runs happily on 87 octane fuel . BluePrint Engines, with over 80 years of combined engineering experience, has established itself as a leader in the crate engine market, and the Cruiser series represents their commitment to accessible, reliable performance .

302 Cruiser Horsepower and Torque Figures

This turnkey 302 crate engine produces impressive output that makes it a favorite among classic Ford builders:

• 361 horsepower – dyno tested and verified 

• 334 lb-ft torque – strong mid-range power for street driving 

• 9.4:1 compression ratio – 87 octane pump gas friendly 

• Hydraulic roller cam – low maintenance, excellent durability 

Complete 302 Cruiser Engine Specifications

BluePrint Cast Iron Block

The foundation of this BluePrint 302 crate engine is a NEW BluePrint cast iron block, manufactured and machined in the USA . Key block features include:

• 4-bolt main caps for exceptional bottom-end strength 

• 1-piece rear main seal for leak-free operation 

• 4.000-inch bore x 3.000-inch stroke 

• 50oz external engine balance 

• Mechanical fuel pump provision 

Rotating Assembly

The rotating assembly in the BP302CTC is built for durability and longevity:

• Cast steel crankshaft with 3.000-inch stroke 

• OEM-type 5.090-inch connecting rods 

• Hypereutectic pistons for excellent strength and heat resistance 

• 50oz external engine balance 

BluePrint Aluminum Cylinder Heads

The BluePrint aluminum cylinder heads (HP9008) provide exceptional flow :

• 60cc combustion chambers 

• 2.02-inch intake valves 

• 1.60-inch exhaust valves 

• 190cc intake runners 

• 60cc exhaust runners 

Hydraulic Roller Camshaft Specifications

What’s Included with Your BP302CTC Crate Engine

The BP302CTC comes as a fully dressed long block with the following components included :

Important Note: Flexplate/flywheel is not included with the engine . Engine requires a V-belt standard rotation water pump and belt system; timing cover is designed for standard rotation water pump only .

302 Cruiser Crate Engine Installation Notes

Important Considerations Before Installation

Before installing your BluePrint BP302CTC crate engine, review these critical notes :

• Designed for pre-1966 street vehicles or off-road applications – Verify emissions compliance for your jurisdiction 

• 87 octane fuel recommended – Run on regular unleaded 

• 32-34° total timing at 3,500 RPM recommended 

• Initial timing 10-16° at idle 

• Firing order: 1, 8, 4, 3, 6, 5, 7, 2

• Total oil capacity: 5 quarts

Emissions and Warranty Information

Emissions Compliance: For race/off-road use or pre-1966 vehicles . This part is only legal for sale or use in California for racing (competition) vehicles which may never be used, registered, or licensed for use upon a public highway, or if installed in vehicles model-year 1965 or older .

Warranty: BluePrint Engines offers a comprehensive 30-month / 50,000-mile warranty on the BP302CTC .

Break-In Recommendations

BluePrint Engines recommends:

• Use conventional (non-synthetic) break-in oil with zinc additive for the first 500 miles

• Avoid hard acceleration for sustained periods

• Periodically change engine speed while driving to help seat rings

• Monitor oil pressure and coolant temperature closely

• Change oil and filter after break-in period

302 Cruiser Engine Swap – Compatibility and Considerations

The BP302CTC is a drop-in replacement for any vehicle originally equipped with a small-block Ford Windsor . Compatible applications include:

• Ford Mustang (Fox Body and earlier)

• Ford Falcon

• Ford Fairlane

• Ford Ranchero

• Ford F-Series trucks

• Mercury Cougar

• Street rods and custom builds

• Classic Ford cars requiring a 1-piece rear main seal configuration

Why Choose NH Race Engine for Your Ford Windsor Crate Engine?

As a Netherlands-based specialist serving performance enthusiasts across Europe, NH Race Engine brings unmatched expertise to your Ford project. We understand the unique requirements of European builds—from shipping logistics to regional considerations. Browse our Ford Windsor / Modular collection and other crate engine offerings to find the perfect solution for your build.

Contact NH Race Engine today to discuss your 302 Cruiser engine requirements. Our expert team can help you navigate compatibility, shipping, and installation considerations for your European build.