I'm new to the whole restoration world. I just acquired a 63 f100 with a SB 289. I'm wondering what's the most you can get out of a 289. Any easy bolt ons a newbie can do?

 

This motor is the same as all other Ford smallblocks you just need to let it breath and it'll make power. To figure out how much more you can get you first have to know what your're starting with, is the motor original or was it swapped at some point? What heads and intake does it have and of course what cam. The exhaust is typically the most common starting point, stock systems were usually quiet which in this case also means restrictive so the more of it you can replace with aftermarket bits the better. You will also see benefits from common tunup parts as well, replace the points with electronic ignition, put a high output coil on it, advance the timing, etc. once you get through all that then you can start going inside the motor and upgrade the cam, intake, and heads and then you'll really start to see big gains. And then there are stroker kits, turbos and superchargers, nitros... just depends on your budget and goals.

 

A 289 would not have been OEM in a F100, or any truck other than a Ranchero.

You sure it's a 289 and not a 292? How many bolts holding the valve covers?

 

It needs more cubic inches.If bolt ons don't make you happy,then swap it for a 351W.Don't waste your time tearing into the short block.If its an old original 289,in good running condition,it might be desirable to a mustang owner.Which is really where it belongs,not in a truck.Even a stock late model 351w will make it feel like a different truck.

 

Thanks guys. I got it a week ago and haven't really dove into it just yet. I know that it was a motor swap and that its not the original motor. It starts and everything but the Carb has been a pain in the butt. I will check on the bolts like ya said. I'm not trying to make it a crazy race machine or anything I just want a little more get up and go. Right now I know that the exhaust isn't an issue cuz there isn't any (the neighbors love that part. Haha) I will hopefully Ger into it this weekend and be able to answer some questions because I know I will have more to ask. Thanks again for all the help.