'74 Highboy, original engine was a 390 if I'm decoding the VIN correctly. But a PO dropped in a 429 (allegedly, b/c haven't got the oil pan off to check the numbers to be sure). If so, God knows when.

I'm getting smoke out of the right side of the motor. Also, bought it from out of state and trailored it home, and thank God I did because when I drained the oil pan I got a whole 1/2 quart out if it! So, for me right now the motor is sketchy.

If it comes to a rebuild, must I do anything exotic as to parts to get 350-400 hp out of the motor while maintaining a reliable motor? I'll confess I haven't searched this forum but I'd appreciate your opinion and any suggestions to get to where I'd like to be hp-wise. And I thank you for your time.
Vic

 

Most people will convert their 429 to a 460 if it needs a rebuild. With that said here's some info to check out. Good luck with it and let us know how it plays out.


460 Horsepower Chart (revised 1/24/09) - 460 Ford Forum

 

Depends on what year 429 is. the 1969 & 1970 models ran 11:25 compression stock. Have to use premium. The compression comes from the block deck height. It was raised in 1971 to lower compression. It could have the DOVE-c heads on it. Good luck

 

Smoke from one side of the motor but not the other? I'd bet it's a head gasket.