Rebuilding my 289

thedanman40

New Member
Feb 12, 2004
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So far what I have is the edelbrock performer rpm package which includes heads, cam, intake manifold and there 600 cfm carb. This will be a daily driver but with some sweet power hopefully. I am wondering what else will match up with this setup as in pistons headers, ignition, timing, fuel pump, water pump etc. I am looking to replace every last part and have about 4000 to spend now that i already have those edelbrock parts. So I am up for anyones suggestions and experience with this package and others.

Thanks
 
More power will just be a waste if your drivetrain is up to the task? Make sure your tranny and rear end can handle the power before opting for boost.

You'll have over 300HP at the crank with the RPM setup. Besides headers, exhaust, and ignition, I'd get a limited slip rear end. You can get a 4-Spider 8" 3rd member with gear of choice for about $600.

Also, since it is a daily driver, I also get a nice set of Tri-Y headers. http://www.thorleyheaders.com/ makes some of the best. I have a set of Mac 4-1 headers but may not install them for my 302 and go with the Thorley's. Hedman also sells several types of headers for the Mustang.
 
Stick with a street performance mechanical fuel pump that doesn't require a pressure regulator. Carter and Holley both make good pumps that maintain constant 6psi fuel pressure.

If you want to do a complete rebuild, you should disassemble the short block and replace bearings and rings. If you choose to have the block machined, expect to spend roughly $500 - $600 getting it prepped (cleaning, cam bearings, bore and hone, align hone, potential decking). If the bearings check out OK when disassembled, you should be able to retain the 289 crank and rods. These are good castings but you will want to recondition the rods and install some ARP rod bolts for safety (This is about another $125 for both).

If the block is bored then you will need pistons. If you don't see the use of boost or NOS, save some money and go for Hypertectic. Otherwise go for forged.

My personal rank for pistons (Estimated Forged Pricing) no ranting please:):
1. CP ($650+)
2. JE ($500 - $650)
3. Wiseco ($500 - $650)
4. Speed Pro / Probe / SRP ($350 - $500)

I just spent about 6 months planning my engine build so these should be pretty accurate.

$0.02
 
Sorry to keep asking you questions, but did u buy the parts seperately or did it come as a package. I cant find a package i just find all the seperate performer series parts. If it does come in a package could u give me the exact web address for the package? Thanks, sorry for bothering you.
 
I have this setup on my 289 with a 750 carb instead. I would seriously recommend using a 351W block instead of the 289. I have like $6500 in the motor, with .200 dome forged pistons and stock rods and stuff, and its strong up top, but not much torque for that seat of the pants thrill. If I could do it again I would have gone for more torque. 6500 rpm is screaming for most street driving. Or since you didnt do the bottom end yet, one of those Paxton carb supercharger deals could solve the low torque problem! Have Fun!
 
What are you basing this on?

I'm just to the point where anything below 400rwhp bores me to death. I'll test drive new cars and leave completely unimpressed, my friends 03 cobra doesn't impress me... my car is getting boring too. It's me, not you. Why can't car people ever reach a level of satisfaction?
 
sounds like your toys are just too good, i would die to have any of the cars on that list on your sig

And I would like a 66 mustang. I've built classic mustangs from the ground up and I've wanted one forever... but I've never gotten one. But hopefully I will soon.