ive got to build a motor for my 64 custom it has a 289 now i wanted to build a 390 but due to tight money right now i think im gonna redue the 289 thinking of building a 331 stroker ive herd the 347 has some major rod to stroke issues and dont last to long is it worth the extra money to stroke this engine or should i put the money towards a better set of heads this car is pretty much a driver but i due run it down the strip ever now and then ive got a ton of money allready in the 289 ( new cam, clutch, waterpump, intake etc) with less then 500 miles before the mains started rattling real bad so i figured i could use my new parts and redue the bottom end just undecided on a stroker or stock what do you all think
If it is a 64 motor it has a five bolt pattern for the bell housing and myself would not build the five bolt. 65 and up are 6 bolt housings and have a wider range of transmissions you can use.
The only reason why people spend all that money to make a tiny little Windsor engine? Because it fits into that tiny little engine compartment - late Mustang. What to do? 400C
I had a '63 Galaxie that had a 289 and I replaced it with a 351W, it was a real nice setup. It might be cheaper for you than stroking the 289. Like PANIC said, the reason for stroking a 289/302 is USUALLY to fit the engine in a small engine compartment. You have the room. Just wanted to mention another way to go.
Heck I have to think you could find a decent running 390 for not a ton of money in a beater or a 4-door or something and just swap it in.
The only ones that would have GT40 heads would be the 351W out of 93-95 F-150 Lightnings. The regular 302 and 351 in the pickups had the same basic head casting as the 87-95 302 HO Mustang. The roller cam did not start until 1994 in the trucks. 302 Explorer SUVs did have GT40 heads from 96 to mid 97, and then the GT40"P" version from mid-97 to 01. The P heads have smaller exhaust valves and a revised spartk plug location, a**** other changes. Back to the original poster's questions, as mentioned, a 64 block casting limits the transmission choices. If you are going to stay with the original trans. forever, then that won't matter. Otherwise a later 302 would probably be the best starting point for a buildup, gives you a few more options. cheers Ed N.
yes, there are 5 and 6 bolt patterns for the 289s. I would be damn sure you have a 6 bolt. The 5 bolts are VERY hard to find usable transmissions for. Not to spam or anything, but...if I am, delete my post...try out www.sbftech.com they have TONS of info you are looking for.
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