[427sharpe]

If you want a stroker, look for a Mexican 302 block. They have the heavy main caps and were cast in the same plant as the HiPo 289's (Hermisillo, Mx). Easy to ID, as they say "Hecho En Mexico" in the lifter valley, and have the thick main caps. Stroking a 289 is not a good idea, as it was a stroked 221 to begin with. To build a solid performing 289, I recc'd the Sealed Power forged pistons, ARP bolts everywhere (including the rods). In the cam, I like a solid lifter (as the HiPo came originally) and there are plenty of choices...I like Comp Cams Magnum 280 and 292. Get one with a split duration, as the Fords need a little help breathing on the exhaust side. On the heads, standard port and polish and away you go. I have kept the HiPo 289 in my GT350 nearly stock, and have always been pleased with it's power and reliability. Remember that all the great aluminum heads out here will work too....just check for piston interference. Oh...and run a windage tray! I use the Boss 302 tray, and they are still available.