just got my self a 88 mustang and i want to put a v8 on it. i know i am going carb but this is my first project where i go carb. do you have any suggestions on combos that i could use for quick hp's. i am planning on using a 306 or 351 bottom end with forged pistons.thanks
I'd have to agree that it's probably the most significant factor. Followed by the smog/emissions factor.
The first question you need to determine is 'What do you intend to do with the car?' For example, when I started my current project, my goal was to set the car up and have enough power to run 11's with anybody's choice of tire. Walmart's bottom of the line in 255/50 or any new tire in my size. I don't know if I'm there yet, but it should be pretty close.
On the non-planning side: A friend of mine just started bolting on his brothers hand-me-downs with no particular goals established. Last week he blew the blower belt at 1000' and still ran 11.48@123. That's with no suspension upgrades, too. Nice to do if you've got a connection to get some excellent prices on new stuff or great deals on used.
well i have about a 2000 budjet on just engine parts. the block i already have. but i cant decide which one will give me the best power gain without spending a whole lot of money
I think your best bet would be to check all the junkyards in your area and pickup a low miles (<75k) 5.0 from a wrecked stang, lincoln or truck. If you find a stang, you can also get a lot of the supporting hardware for a V8 conversion.
$2000 isn't going to get you very far with a new build unless you're planning on reusing the factory crank & rods. It'll be $400-500 just for block machine work. The cheapest 'better than factory' rotating assembly will probably run you $750-900. Got Heads? At a minimum you'll need to recondition a set of factory 5.0 heads. That can probably be done for $200-300. Add in all your gaskets & misc fasteners for around $150-200. New water pump, new oil pump, 5.0 alternator, 5.0 accessory brackets, 5.0 radiator, 5.0 bellhousing, etc... Got your carb & intake yet??
So you see how quickly your go through $2000. I'm not saying it can't be done, but you'll need to be patient & find some killer deals along the way.
i going to pick up a 351 this weekend! so i will find out early next week how much they will charge at a machine shop to prep it up for me. either way thanks for the info!