302 vs 289

somedayaurora · #1 (**permalink**) 03-03-2010, 07:55 AM

So what were your options if you wanted a performance smallblock in 68 ? wait till the 351 Windsor in 69 ?
SDR
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Ferrari 156/85 history

Woodz428 · #2 (**permalink**) 03-03-2010, 08:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by somedayaurora

So what were your options if you wanted a performance smallblock in 68 ? wait till the 351 Windsor in 69 ?
SDR

Pretty much the same as today..without all the choices. Mondello/Airesearch did head work ,Shelby and others supplied intakes/cams/headers. It was a little more experimenting than now, but engine builders ARE engine builders and factory offerings aren't usually an obstacle.
I only suppied a few names but there were many at the time, just get an old Hot Rod, Car Craft, C&D,R&T, R&C and peruse the ads to see the multitude of offerings. Many have been bought up or ceased to exist. Many were WWII military that returned to persue their dreams. There were a few manufacturers that produced for others because they had foundries that the smaller companies didn't. The early "Cobra" products, as well as others, fell into that category.

Woodz428 · #3 (**permalink**) 03-03-2010, 08:41 AM

Just to toss another thing in. It seems that there are now 351W blocks available that use the smaller 289/302 main size. I am sure to reduce bearing speed. But I have a 289 crank that has been gathering dust for about 35 years and intend to drop it into a 351W block with the small mains to put in our Coupe. With the longer rods and new aluminum heads it should be a great street engine.