I have a bone stock 200 ci I6. I would like a V8 but i have come to realize the reliabilityy of this engine, any suggestions on the best way to squeeze some more horsepower out of it without squeezing too much out of the pockets?
Thanks, I realize they are not popular but they are rock solid reliable, I would just like a little more umph when i need it to rip apart my friends little euro ricer pieces of crap. I'll check in to that though..
You could consider swapping in a 300. At one time I test drove new F150 supercab pickups. I drove a 300, 302 and a 351W pickup one right after the other. This was probably about 10 years ago. There wasn't a noticeable seat of the pants difference between the three. I remember being quite surprised at the time.
That would have been a fuel injected 300. Yeah, the amount of work might be similar to swapping in an 8. However, I would think they are plentiful and inexpensive in junkyards. You would get great power in a small car, plus modern fuel injected gas mileage and reliability. Plus, you would end up with a really unique package.
One other advantage.. if you ever race someone and beat them? Great bragging rights! I would say the 289 and 302 carbed Mustangs should watch out!
Unless you have serious money... you really shouldn't try to go too far with the inline 6.
I would start with an electronic ignition, better coil, higher output alternator, and the small stuff that goes along with them. Those will help with reliability.
If you want a better sounding exhaust with more power. Get a dual outlet header with whatever mufflers... I got my header from Clifford Performance.
They also have plenty of other parts to bring the performance up. So does FordSix Perf Parts.
Here's a nice streetable setup for a 200ci from Clifford. 200 Street.
Don't forget you need to stop better, turn better, and a new transmission would probably help.
Depending on how far you go, say goodbye to your good gas mileage and your durability unless you build it right.
Get rid of the Load-o-matic distributor and get a Duraspark II or a 68-later points style distributor and add a Pertronix. Hook the distributor to manifold vacuum unless you also change carbs.
thanks guys, the thing is I don't want to be just another guy with just another 8 cyl mustang, I figure maybe having a bad inline six is worth a shot, plus money isn't exactly gonna grow off trees, well technically thats where they start but still.