So I opted for a set of trick flow heads and a edelbrock performer rpm intake, but it appears I have to drill holes in my block for cooling, AND I will need different pushrods! Any one have experience with installing these heads? The engine is a mid 60's 289. Thanks in advance!
Both the heads and the intake are great choices for a 289/302 engine. I had both on my car last year and it ran great. 13.2's to be exact.
As for the steam holes in the block, no problem. Just place a head gasket on the block and mark the holes to be drilled. Remove gasket and drill a few small holes.
This will help you out: http://www.trickflow.com/product/fordcylinderheads/twisted_wedge/pr_twisted_installation.htm
The Twisted Wedge heads do require new longer hardened pushrods. I sold my TW heads last year but still have the pushrods that you can have for 40 bux if you want them.
I briefly had a pair of Trick Flows on my car. They require longer than stock length pushrods. The only reall way to know for sure is to get a pushrod length checker to know for sure. But a call to TF customer service should be able to point you in the right direction.
I'm running the TW head with the Performer RPM manifold and a Demon 625 vac. secondary carb. Nice combo I ended up using a 7.380" long pushrod with my Comp Cams roller rockers. I had a harder time finding rockers that would fit under the Buddy Bar Cobra valve covers!!!
What block and lifters are you using? The pushrod length needed will be different for a flat tappet vs. a roller cam. Flat tappet is 7.3" - roller is 6.75".