[chuck]

I just bought a 1988 5.0 litre with a 5 speed. I want to use it at the drags, where can i find info on rebuilding this engine for more power.
Must re resonable as i am just a working stiff.
Thanks
Chuck

[ro51468]

Since you mentioned drag racing, you might consider going to a 331 or 347 stroker. Stroker kits can range in price from $995.00 to $2000.00 depending on the quality of the parts. Upping the compression a bit will generate more power, but it too has a price with the requirement of better fuels. A set of good aftermarket alum. heads, a bit more aggressive cam, improve the exhaust and ignition.
Some easy ways to start would be doing under drive pulleys, a rear end gear change, although not a HP increase, will definitely get you down track faster. A cat-back system with some headers. Take weight out of the car. Lots of ways to go. Do keep in mind, that as you begin to make more power, things will begin to break. You always end up finding the weakest link.
I guess the big question is...speed cost money, how fast do you want to go?

[Twister]

Chcuk, please explain EXACTLY what you want out of a drag car. Are you looking to run the NMRA? you might be better off buying a race car then building it yourself

[410cougar]

is this going to be for racing only or be driven to the track. if your going for the weekend warrior route which i have feeling you are. your weekest link is your suspension. first thing first: control arms prob go with drag shocks full langth subs and a KB 6pt roll cage. that should elliminate any flex. then its time for brakes. after that depending on where you live id ditch the smog and work up the engine. as i stated befor, this is a good starting point for a weekend racer. if you planning on going all out id prob look into a custome suspension as twister said. let us know what your goals are and what budget your shooting for. also depending on where your going to race your going to have to get the rules (NHRA, ect) may need to get a drive shaft loop and other minor things to be able to even pull on the track.

j

[chuck]

Thanks for all the info.

This car will be a weekend warrior not just a drag car.
I have just heard that you cannot chang the cam or port the manifolds as the 1988 computer cannot read these changes.
I plan on going to headers K&N filter, rear end gears, and slicks for the drags just for know. I also plan to tie the frame together to eliminate the twisting. Would bigger injectors help or are the stock ones good enough. Iwas told that if i want to change cams or pistons that i have to go to a 1989 computer so it can read all these changes, is this correct?

[Twister]

acctually, look at my sig, I am running a STOCK computer and fuel system.....and I have a cam, intake and heads......