Warning Lights vs Gauges
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FTE Legend
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 32,875
Likes: 48
From: Northeast, OK
I've thought seriously about slipping a 440 under the hood since it would bolt right in. And, maybe even the 6 pack setup - hey, 2bbls are good for gas mileage, right? 
Really though, it won't be numbers matching. It'll just be a hot rod, so why not be HOT. Back in the day my Bee got 14 MPG on the highway, and I can't imagine not being able to get at least 12 with a 440. It isn't going further than a few local car shows, so even 10 would be acceptable.
Oh yes, and a Pertronix ignition to get rid of the points. Maybe a headlight relay setup 'cause Mother Mopar did the same thing Ford did but worse - not only does all the current for the headlights run through the switch, but they put a connector on the firewall. The police cars and taxi cabs had the main feed bypassing the connector as they are notorious for failing. But, on my Bee the current for the poor headlights has to go in via the connector, through the switch, and back out via the connector. So, a set of relays is in the offing, but hidden somewhere.
Really though, it won't be numbers matching. It'll just be a hot rod, so why not be HOT. Back in the day my Bee got 14 MPG on the highway, and I can't imagine not being able to get at least 12 with a 440. It isn't going further than a few local car shows, so even 10 would be acceptable.
Oh yes, and a Pertronix ignition to get rid of the points. Maybe a headlight relay setup 'cause Mother Mopar did the same thing Ford did but worse - not only does all the current for the headlights run through the switch, but they put a connector on the firewall. The police cars and taxi cabs had the main feed bypassing the connector as they are notorious for failing. But, on my Bee the current for the poor headlights has to go in via the connector, through the switch, and back out via the connector. So, a set of relays is in the offing, but hidden somewhere.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 2,408
Likes: 5
From: Parkesburg PA
Well since we drifted into Mopar land... My cousin picked this up for a song a couple years ago ($1,500 IIRC). It's a Jepson Interceptor with a stroker 440 six pack... 520 or 525ci. Torque flight trans and I think 8 3/4 rear... This was shot with open headers. He's got an old Plymouth street rod (40's?) with a custom frame under it. Strut front end with a 4 link rear, tubbed out. It was setup for a 454 but he changed it up for the 440...
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FTE Legend
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 32,875
Likes: 48
From: Northeast, OK
That's cool! It'll be a good fix for the Plymouth - I don't like cross-branded hot rods. Waaaay too many 350/350 combo's out there in all sorts of cars.
But, the Jensen needs to live again as well. IIRC, they came with a stock 330 HP 383 or a 440. So, maybe stuff one of those in and get it on the road also?
But, the Jensen needs to live again as well. IIRC, they came with a stock 330 HP 383 or a 440. So, maybe stuff one of those in and get it on the road also?
Cargo Master
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 2,298
Likes: 26
From: NJ
I always hated retrofit low mounted gauges. I have them in my car and don't check them often. Typically at startup, after beating on it, or if something seems not right.
On my truck I put them in the dash. Looks clean, right in your face, and easy to constantly check at a glance. Saved me from killing my engine after it developed an oil leak and ran low, gauge fluttered on the highway at speed and quickly pulled over and topped off, then fixed the leak that night.
Anyhow, if your truck doesn't have air conditioning, I'd suggest this for a simple and effective solution...
On my truck I put them in the dash. Looks clean, right in your face, and easy to constantly check at a glance. Saved me from killing my engine after it developed an oil leak and ran low, gauge fluttered on the highway at speed and quickly pulled over and topped off, then fixed the leak that night.
Anyhow, if your truck doesn't have air conditioning, I'd suggest this for a simple and effective solution...
Moderator
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 22,415
Likes: 92
From: Denver Metro Area, CO
I did something real similar and agree, if you don't have A/C, those are great places for gauges:
I want to install factory A/C, though, so I need to find a new home for those gauges....
Lead Driver
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 6,477
Likes: 19
From: Sheffield, AL
Compliment on dash...
Moderator
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 22,415
Likes: 92
From: Denver Metro Area, CO
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