Help with my Engine rebuild

[Rocketrockel]

I am in the research stage to my engine build and I am hoping that you guys/gals out there could help me out.

Well first off the Engine is a 351 Windsor out of my 79' Ford Thunderbird.
I would like to build an engine that helps make my car into an impressive street machine.:bigsmile:

I guess the only really mods that I've done to the car so far is change the rear end gear to 3.50 which really helped out. Switched to duel exhaust. Oh and new plugs and a high flow air filter. Other than that just a few things to keep me on the road.

Now seeing as the engine is of a low compression era with lower torque and Hp for the engines size and most likely it has parts that are worn out or are just about there, this is where I would like to have some input on engine parts for a rebuild. I am new to this and any info would be greatly appreciated. I hear all the time that you have to match up parts so that you don't waste your time and money. What would be best for my build?

 

[old-git]

Hi and welcome to the forum.

The Windsor and Cleveland engines are not the most popular choices over here in the UK, although two of my friends use the Cleveland in their Mk5 Cortina drag car and Ford Pop road/strip car.

The best place on Earth for advice on and parts for these engines is, surprisingly, Australia as they love them over there.

I will get some contact details during the week if you are interested.

You may find that it is easier, and probably cheaper, to simply buy a crate motor to the specification you require I don't know what sort of budget you have in mind, but have a look at this (just an example):

http://www.fordracingparts.com/crateengine/main.asp

 

[Rocketrockel]

Thanks Old-git.
I did not realize that this was more so a UK based forum.
Its all good though. You never know what people might be able to help you out with if you don't ask.
I have looked into crate engines before, usually they are out of my price range or by the time you add shipping and duty they are out of my price range again. I figured if was to find a great combination of parts for the build I want to achieve, I could purchase them over a period of time making it easier to afford.

 

[old-git]

Although based in the UK we have members from all four corners of the globe.

Although buying parts one at a time seems like a good idea, the risk is that your requirements or specification will change over time (almost certain) and bits bought last year suddenly become obsolete.

You may find it useful, if you decide to build your own engine (much more satisfying), to set up a specific savings account just for the engine build and buy all of the parts in one go from one engine specialist once you have saved enough. This way, you earn a little interest and don't buy parts you end up not using.

You may also be able to negotiate a discount as you will be spending a fair amount in one go.

Buying from one specialist also means they cannot blame the other suppliers if you don't achieve the performance promised

 

[Rocketrockel]

Thanks a bunch!! that's some good advice. Ill keep searching for what components will best suit my build I wish to create and save at the same time.:bigsmile: hopefully by the time I can afford it I will know exactly what I need to put into my motor to give me an impressive street machine!