Just bought a 87 4x4 F150 with a 351 W HO and I want to do some upgrades. The Carb is shot and I was thinking of putting an Edelbrock carb and intake on it. I also have been reading about GT40 heads on this post. Would I be better of just getting new heads from Edelbrock to match everything or get a set of the GT40's and get them done by my local machine shop.
The engine has a smog system that I would like to completely remove (if able without hurting engine) because I don't need it in my area. I also would like suggestions on what typ of shorty headers to use.

The truck will be a daily driver and I may tow somethings now and then. I really didn't want to do a total rebuild just wake it up and make it a sound, reliable truck. Never owned a V8 before so I would need suggestions on what part # to use for all upgrades. Thanks

 

All you got to do is let it breath, that means drop the complete exhaust system including the manifolds and especially if it still has the original cat and replace it with headers and whatever you like behind them, add 1.7 rockers and you'll have to rejet the carb because the motor flows so much more air.
The motor can also use heads and literally anything you can buy aftermarket is an improvement, GT40's flow 20% better and will also boost static CR up to about 9:1(from 8.4) which will help in the TQ department.

 

The carb that is on her now has a cracked main body and bent and missing parts so I am definately in need of getting a new one, any suggestions on which type/brand/size to pick up?
As far as the heads go I'm actually haveing a problem finding a set of GT40 to get rebuilt. Would you happen to know of any place that has them and if I eventually do find a set what machineing if any should I get done to them. Thanks for the help