Geetings form Newbie

Hello all. Just joined this forum and I'm hoping to get info on my project: Been out of highschool since 1981..... and I still have my highschool mustang: a 1968 California Special which still needs some TLC. Now that my son is in highschool, it seems appropriate to work on her like I did with my father.

I've tinkered with her in the past few years. I did front and rear Global West Suspension and disc brakes. We are looking into getting deep into the engine this winter. I hear an engine swap from a circa 2000 explorer motor would be a good one. Just wondering what you guys think about it. I currently have an anemic totally stock 289 that inspires no emotion whatsoever.

thanks in advance

Thanks for the info guys. Well, that sounds good. One of the reasons I was thinking about a new engine is because my stock heads are not even worth porting. When I was in high school all I could afford were junk-yard finds. As it were, I put my engine together from junk yard parts and noticed my heads have cross-threaded valve cover holes. Had to mickey-mouse with high temp silicone to stop the oil leaks.

I guess I can buy another stock set and have them ported,...... or, doesn't Edelbrock make aluminum heads and intake? Maybe I should just buy a package performance deal including heads, intake, carb, cam etc., Anybody with any tips as to where and what to buy?