I just picked up a junkyard special 351W out of a 78 couger it has a 2brl carb I was wondering what was the factory hp and torque and what can I do to make it perform better? I plan on a performer intake and 600 edelbrock carb and some headers any other suggestions???

 

'78--you sure it's a W? Figure 130 or so, HP was in the toilet in '78.

If you want to make a runner out of it, you're going to have to address the cam and compression, as well as all the other usual tricks.

 

Yes, swap on newer heads and install a cam with bumps on it. Edelbrock has a great package for this motor, if nothing else use it as a guide for what you need, the cam and intake will still add performance with other heads.

 

What heads would you suggest and at a reasonable price where do I find them I am on a buget ! I know the heads where very restrictive also what cam would be good brand, size duration?

 

Get a set of E7TE's off a late model 5.0/5.8 or better yet GT40's off an Explorer/Mountaineer 5.0, all of these will raise compression and the GT40's flow better. The cam you select depends upon your intended use and vehicle. Something with 260-270 adv duration and about 1/2" lift will produce a broad powerband, a little less duration for more torque, a little more duration for more peak HP.

 

I just plan on daily driver with good acceleration and hp!

 

N.B.: The GT40 heads, or any heads from a 302/5.0 engine will need to have the head bolt holes redrilled to clear the 1/2" Windsor head bolts (i.e. drilled to 17/32", the extra 1/32" is for clearance).

 

What kind of vechicle is this going in?

 

My 1946 Ford 1 ton pick up I also have a matching C4 trans with a B&M shift kit to go with it!

 

Sounds like fun, are you leaving the suspension 1 ton?

 

Yes for the most part I want to switch out the rear end and put drop spindles up front 2-3" but don't know where to find them yet? I want to keep most of the truck original except for the paint, interior and rims&tires of course! I would like to put some custom rims on that is why I need a different rear end and new spindles and hubs up front! Does anyone know what,where or how to do this what parts to use??

 

I dont know about the dropped spindle deal, it's an I-beam front axle. They sell dropped axles,but it would be a 1/2 ton deal. You may want to find a donor vehicle and swap out the front axle and springs. However there are companies out there that can drop your axle. Go to jalopy journal.com click on H.A.M.B. Someone there might be able to lead you in that direction. Good luck with your project!

 

It doesn't matter if it is half ton or not I will switch it to a 1/2 ton axle if they are easyer to find parts and rims for! I am looking to change to a more common bolt pattern anyhow!