Alright guys, I've gotten myself into a mental predicament once again.
Should I go with a 408 Cleveland with factory 4V heads or a TFS headed 428 for my '67 Cougar?
I do this all the time with projects--change my mind on what I want to do.
The 428 is partly done. I have everything to complete the short block. Will need to purchase heads and intake (again, as I sold the TFS and Performer RPM I previously had purchased from Brent,) the compatible rocker stands and rocker assemblies and pushrods. Have a manual transmission flywheel, bell housing and Hooker 6114 headers already. Still need the correct motor mounts.
The Cleveland stuff I will have to purchase from a local guy--a grand for a complete short block and complete 4V closed chamber heads, or $750 for a bare block and the heads.
Will purchase the 408 kit from Brent. Will possibly need to machine the heads for screw-in studs and guide plates--unless a hydraulic flat tappet cam could be utilized with the stock bolt-down rockers--and of course will need new stainless valves and the correct springs and retainers for whatever cam is selected.
Can use all the installation components already in the car--motor mounts, bell housing etc. Will need to purchase a flywheel and headers.
I'm also still wanting to do an engine swap in my '89 F-150 2wd short bed and what the 428 was originally purchased for.
I could install the 428 using factory iron heads and CJ intake I already have and have a torquie, fun driver. Would have to change the transmission, motor mounts etc. but I do have headers that would probably work.
Or...install the Cleveland at stock cubic inch and still have a fun driver. Won't have to change the transmission. Had a 351 4V CJ motor in my old '79 F-100 2wd short bed years ago and it was fun.
Which engine would you put in which rig? The FE would be period correct for the Cougar but of course, neither would be for the truck. I like the idea of the Cleveland in the Cougar because of the ease of maintenance but like the FE because it's correct for the era.
I can either buy the heads for the 428 or the stroker kit for the Cleveland, I can't do both.
Thanks guys.