It's not exactly common, but it does happen. Been awhile since I've seen it, but there are a few things to look at/do/ponder.
First, is this a tall deck block by any chance? Not sure if that's a thing, but if it is, you may have to do even more work.
Are the heads anything unusual, such as having tall rails around the rocker galley? Just wondering if there is something causing more interference than normal.
And finally, which valve/rocker covers are you using?
If you've got any measurements to share, please do so. I do not know what they should be, or what you should be looking for, or from where to measure. But if you can post up some dimensions with a description of where you're measuring, this might help.
The taller engine theory aside, a 351 is taller to begin with anyway. And back in the dark ages we would sometimes have trouble with a Windsor in the spot where the 289/302 sat.
Some people do end up cutting the firewall, but I don't think that was the main solution.
You can loosen all 8 body mounts and see if you can shift the body rearward by enough.
I am not aware of any shorter Ford engine mounts for this family of engines. Or for any other older Ford engine family for that matter. Only taller ones!
There really is not much room to move the engine down, OR forward in a Bronco. And rearward is a non-starter in your case obviously. So moving the body back might be the only non-invasive solution at this point.
I've heard of using hammers, or cutting the body. A body lift might, or probably won't help. But what do you think about it going up? Would that be any help at all.
Got pics of the offending appendage? I see you're a contributor, so by all means post up some pics. Besides, even if it doesn't help your dilemma, we still like pics! Especially of new-to-us Broncos in different time zones.
Paul
