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I have a 66 with a 289. Should I put money into it or just go for a bigger engine? At this time it doesnt burn oil, and I have not taken it in to check the compression. What do you think?
Depends if you want to keep it stock or go resto mod. If you want to keep it stock or 'stock' you can rebuild the motor and get in the 275hp range easy. A 289 could with work be taken up to 427(look up the Munster coach) around 450 hp. You could remove the motor, rebuild and keep it for later and drop in your fav motor from 302 to FE to 460 and go as big as 800 cubes. Me I would rebuild, warm it up with some portin and polish, balanced and 'printed get it around 300hp and have a darn good ride.
I'd have to agree with 68 Torino here. If you like the 66 Bronco look, and wish to keep it a stock Bronco, keep the motor. A 289 sure beats the hell out of the 170 6cyl I have in my 66. If you are looking to turn this thing into a rock/mud monster, and don't feel like spending alot of dough on building, go ahead and invest in something bigger.
And, incidentally, if you do plan on going to monster route, let me know. I can always use some more stock 66 parts for my frame off restoration.
I would keep it a small block Windsor engine, whether you keep the 289 or go with a 351 conversion. A small block Bronco has plenty of power for any kind of 4 wheeling.