[flip]

I have a 1988 5.0 mustang and I would like to see if the 302 engine can be be bigger than what it is right now. I know it is better if you have a whole lot of money and get everything at one time, but what I'm asking is, can I have a ARF 185 heads and cams installed for right now and It will be safe with the nitrous? I don't really know where I want to go at this but I heard you can build up the 302. Thanks always for any help

[Snake Pliskin]

The problem is everything works as a team. The AFR's and cam will help but without an intake and exhaust, they won't live up to their potential. I know it's a lot of money but you really should look at those packages like the Trick Flow, Holley, or Edlebrock. You get a complete top end for around two grand. As for the nitrous, that really depends on how much and how often. The 302 can be stroked to 347, so yes it can be made bigger. Another problem you will have is 88 cars unless a California model have speed density instead of mass air. The mass air conversion is not hard but will be necessary for seroius mods.

[GTRaptor]

No problem, you can install those heads, and will gain mostly at the top end, and maybe loose a bit of torque down low.

Then you might want to start thinking on a stroker kit or shortblock, an improved intake, exhaust, etc.

[Doc]

In reference to Mass air.....if you keep the stock brain.

Save your money on those big port heads for now. Save your money and buy waht you can get or want to do the whole engine. Start at teh bottom and work your way up. Stroke it, don't stroke it, invest in a good crank (Scat is excellent and not horrible on the wallet), rods, pistons, cam and valvetrain (same manufacturer preferred), heads intake....etc. Save your money and do alot of reading.

You will build it in your head a dozen or more times before you turn the first wrench. Read lots, be cautious, over engineer for durability, and go fast reliably.

Doc

[flip]

Damn guys! You don't mess around with quality answers. As always, thanks for the help.