FFR428 thanks for that link to DSCMOTORSPORT. I had an interesting chat with owner.
I'm having my ROSS pistons milled to remove the "pop up" portion in order to reduce the compression ratio. That will remove about 10-15 cc of material, the pistons will still have enough thickness on top. That and a thicker head gasket might get me down to 10 to1 (from 12.5 to 1).
I wouldn't buy new pistons unless my machinist indicated there WAS something wrong with my old ones. Mine checked out fine. I think the key to a good reasonably priced engine build is to measure everything and do what needs to be done to bring the parts within specs.
Some just go in and replace and machine and buy and do everything to the max. Thats fine, if you got the money. Me? I'll measure twice and think about what I REALLY need to do.
I've heard some say those "old" FE con rods HAVE to be replaced. Maybe, maybe not. I'm not throwin' MINE out before I measure them carefully and consider my options! I don't buy into the idea that just because there "old" there "weak". Hey, maybe there "seasoned" and stronger than ever (like me)!
I like the idea that MOST of my engine will in fact be "original" Ford spec OEM parts from the mid 60's. Yeah I know those Edelbrock heads are great, but mine are the "real deal". High Rise with a Ford aluminium 2X4 intake sitting on them! I'm going to run a flat tappet camshaft too, just like "back in the day"!
Oh, I have the Super Cobra Jet rods,,,,, cool.
