1969 mach 1 clone engine question???

burningair · 11-02-2008

OK I have 1969 Mach 1 clone with a 351 w engine, AOD trans, 4 wheel disk, and all the standard mods.I have some questions about the power plant. I am going to stroke the engine but, the question is how much 393?, 408?, or 427?. Also planning on using the stock block. I thought about adding small blower (carb over style). Just know I want stupid fast just not breaking parts every time I drive fast. I know that sounds stupid but thats the real truth. I will not be doing any auto cross or drag racing just crusing with the the wife. In the past I've had some fast cars 72 Vette 427 and 74 Camaro 396 and this time I want fast and nimble. No more just straight line fast "Please". Anyway any help would be nice or just tell me your setup and if your happy with it! Thanks for the help.

andrewmp6 · 11-02-2008

I'm not an engine builder but there are a lot of 408 out there don't see too many 427 tho.But just make sure your heads intake and cam will match with whatever ci you go with and enjoy the car.

.boB · 11-02-2008

You can't beat cubes. There's no replacement for displacement. If your block is in good shape, go for the most cubes you can afford. Add a forged rotating assembly, and you'll have a real killer.

andrewmp6 · 11-03-2008

If you want the car to handle better or just ride smoother there are a few tricks.

ieatdrt · 11-03-2008

If you want dependability go with the 408W, the 427 is pushing the limits of a stock block. If you were going to use an aftermarket block, ie Man O' War, then you could spin the 427 all day long. The 408 is a torque monster as well, and will help pull you out of the turns. I know a 408W can easily make over 500hp and 500 lb/ft of torque. Add a blower and watch out! I suggest looking into Global West, and Total Control Products for your suspension. You can also get your hands on the Boss 302 Mustang upgrade manual, if you want to get some good tips and tricks.

burningair · 11-04-2008

Thanks for all the info guys. I think the money is going to be pushing me to stay with stock block so I guess the 408 is the one. I also will be going to a coil over in the front with a rack setup. Do any of you have any experience with the carb over blower (good, bad, easy, or hard to tune)? I know I need to have a plan prior to the engine build. If the blower is all that, I'll go low compression. If not I'm going to go high and get as much as possible on high grade pump gas. By the way I'm very pleased to find this sight with peaple that are of the same mind set.

.boB · 11-06-2008

I used a Flaming River manual R&P conversion on my '66 coupe. They advertise "Manual steering that feels like power". BS. Never should have done that. Rolling along, it felt fine. But parking lost and stop signs felt like driving an old M925 truck. The steering column that cam with it was pretty cheesy, and didn't have a good feel.

If I were to do it again, I would look for a conversion that uses mostly stock Ford parts.