Hello and thank you for taking the time to look at my question. I have beentrolling around the forums for days trying to read and absorb as muchinformation as I can. I am very impressed by the wealth of knowledge and thewillingness to help. I’m sure that I have read the answer to my questions manytimes over. I’m just not sure I comprehended the answer. So at the risk ofasking an old question I will pose my questions to you and ask for yourforgiveness.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>

I want to build a 351W for my ’79 F100 short bed 2WD. Mygoal is to achieve the highest performance possible for a pump gas streetabletruck without spending more than a couple $K. I wont be driving the truck daily. but would like it reliable.

WHAT I HAVE:<o></o>

Currently I have a mid 80’s 351W that came from the localsalvage yard. I have not determined the heads. But was told the block was stockand in working order. It has a Torker II intake. I also have a mid 80’s AODtransmission I would like your opinion if I ran a lower gear in the rear end.<o></o>

WHAT IM THINKING:<o></o>

I have read that I can build a 357 all stock lower end, goodheads, intake, carb and headers to achieve a 400-450HP/450+TQ engine.<o></o>

MY QUESTIONS SPECIFICLLY (plus any advice is welcomeconcerning anything about the project):<o></o>

Can I achieve good performance from the Torker II intake?Ive read many mixed opinions about this intake. However it would help keep thecost down if I can build with it. Then I could put more money somewhere else.<o></o>

Please recommend what you would build this engine with.<o></o>

Would anyone discourage me from using the AOD? And what gearratio would be good to make the truck quick but still drive it to work?<o></o>

As the thread builds I’m sure I will have more questions,but thank you in advance.<o></o>

 

This might give you some ideas.

Twin Ford 351 Builds Pt.1 | HorsePower | PowerBlockTV - Full Episodes

Sorry bout the ads. They werent there last time I looked.

 

The AOD may be a love it or hate it thing but I've got a couple that are built and pretty stout. Just food for thought, I wouldn't be afraid to run one providing you put a kit and good converter in it.

 

Welcome to FTE.

The Torker II is a single-plane, open plenum manifold. Edelbrock states it is designed for a 2500-6500 RPM range. I prefer torque on the street rather than peak HP at let's say, 5000 RPM. A dual plane, four-hole design like the Performer or Performer RPM is better suited for these trucks IMO.

AOD.. go for it. An extra gear is a good thing. I would aim for rear gears between 3.70 and 3.90 or even a 4.10.

Me? I prefer a man pedal and five gears.

 

Nice looking truck. The torker is not the best choice as stated above for your truck. Works great in upper rpms. But you would be better suited with a dual plane of some type. Also dont go crazy when choosing your cam. Nice lopey cams sound great in the mall parking lot but arent really what you need in a 2.5 ton truck.

 

We need a like button.!

 

Thank you. As a product of my generation sometimes I learn better with the audio/visual. I'm sure I'll watch these thru again a time or two.

 

Jchet729, I was hoping to hear that. Can you recommend a good kit for a budget? Also what converter would you run? I've never had or driven a stall. I may be a little shy for one. ?

 

HIO Silver, I really was afraid of that. I knew it was coming and really appreciate your honest. What would be the perfect intake? If I'm gonna bust the budget I might as well get the best. Many places I've read really call on the Victor Jr.

And don't be surprised if you're on Facebook some day and see that Man Pedal pic. I like it.

 

Gatorfor88, what would be a low cost Cam, head, intake combo? I'm kinda over my big lope phase. Back in the 80's I had a 83 5.0 that all I seemed to do was work on it just so it would run long enough to impress with a lope. :-)

 

If you guys were going to spend $2k on a set of heads, intake, cam and carb to fit my purpose, what would you buy?

 

Those guys recommending a Victor Jr. have "race" in their brains. You've got a truck and a heavy one at that which needs to get off the line - that's where torque comes in.

As far as a combo, consider Edelbrock Performer RPM Power Package 2092... but you supply the carb.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/edl-2092

**Man Pedal, a five-speed, and a Hurst shifter**

 

There is sort of a like button, top right corner of every post is a balance scale. Click on it to add to someones reputation.

 

HIO Silver,

While checking out the Edelbrock top end kits I seen the next step up http://www.summitracing.com/parts/edl-2090

I know I asked for a $2K option but would this do what I need in the F-100 but with more HP/TQ?

 

Jchet729,
I'm somewhat familiar with your part of the country. I grew up just west of Kirksville. Would you mind sharing info on who built your AOD's? I may consider talking to them about building one for me.