cam selection

[steelcomp]

Keith,
I'm rebuilding the 390 in my 68 Ford F250 utility truck. I've gained a new respect for the FE, and the work you've done with them, so I thought I'd get your input on a good low rpm, torque motor that also focuses on fuel economy. I know, we all want the best of both worlds.
Here's the requirements.
Reg fuel.
Power enough to motivate my 6000+ lb work truck.
Automatic, C6, no overdrive. Probably cruise in the 2500 rpm range. Lots of highway driving, so effeciency can be targeted for there.
Here's my questions:
Will the stock C8 heads do the job? I know they're big enough, but are they the best choice?
What intake/ carb? Currently factory 2V w/ Holley.
What ignition?
And the real question, what cam and compression?
I know this is all going to relate to cyl pressure w/ low static cr. and port/intake velocity. Just a little out of touch with what's avail for FE's these days.
Thanks and regards,
Scott

[Keithc8]

Scott I believe I would keep the compression at 9to1 or a little less with about a .040 quench area above the piston. The heads will should do the job at the low RPM, there are a few heads that would work better but a little hard to find. I think the regular Edelbrock Performer intake would work well with a 600cfm carburetor. I would think that a High Energy style hydraulic flat tappet with about 212/214 intake and 220/224 exhaust with upper .400's lift on a 110 lobe seperation installed about 4 degrees advanced. Let me know what you think about this combination. Good luck, Keith

[steelcomp]

Keith, Thanks for the response. Everything sounds good to me, although I'm curious about the 110 LC...seems close? Other than that, sounds right.
What other heads are you referring to? Would they make much difference?
Thanks for your time.

Scott

[Keithc8]

With the weight of the truck the heads you have would be fine. The rpm range I assume would be real low. This is the reason for the lobe seperation as well as the heavy truck. This would help build more low end torque. Thanks, Keith

[steelcomp]

Cool...that makes sense. Thanks again for your time and advice.