I know by reading FAQ here that 500CFM carb is generally recommended for stock C code 289s. Since a C Code came with a 2V carb, if I want to upgrade to an Edelbrock 500CFM carb, would the best fit be the Performer RPM intake for that motor? Combining this with Tri Y headers and true dual exhaust (stock single exhause and manifold today), will I see any true improvement in power or is it more just to say "I have 4V and headers"? I really don't want to do the heads and cam route now....I want to keep it pretty stock.

 

The best stock replacement manifoild is the Performer. The RPM is more performance orientated.
The Performer flows slightly better than than the stock ford cast iron one, and is lighter. Having the 4V and headers/twin will give you some pawer gain. Enough to notice but not enough to really give you a kick. I would recommend doing a cam/lifter/timing set change whicle you have the intake off. It an easy job, and will let your engine appreciate the 4V and headers. If you dont want to go too far and have an auto, I would recommend the Edelbrock Performer cam, and double row timing chain. If going this way I would choose the RPM manifold.

 

Okay, this sounds like a good (not too drastic) route to take for me. What I wonder is if the addition of a higher performance cam/lifter/timing set change will stress my original stock motor. I know the motor was stock rebuilt (I think just a top end rebuild) once 17 years ago and it does not smoke or anything crazy and has been used very little since (until I bought it 7 months ago)...I guess the bottom line is: how can I tell if my original low performance C code engine components will be alright with these performace mods?

 

Because they will say if they are for a 289

 

Yeah, you know what I'm saying. I'm concerned about stressing this 40 year old, original motor with higher performace parts, or are these parts not drastic enough to really stress it?

 

No these are not enough to stress your motor too much. Make sure you have changed all your fluids, and that it is tuned correctly. I would also ensure once the new carb goes oon that you get someone to set up the jets so you are getting the right Air/Fuel ratio.

 

I've done exactly what you are proposing, and it's worked great. I now have 20,000 miles on the motor, and regularly "exercise" it without any problems. The performer 500CFM carb comes jetted VERY rich in the stock condition, so be prepared to go 3 or 4 steps leaner. As a matter of fact, I used the leanest rod (without changing the orifice) which was a bit TOO lean, and then chucked it up in a drill press and used a piece of emery paper to "turn" it down a little at a time till the lean spot in the power curve went away. This little mixture adjustment did two things: It made MORE power, and increased the gas mileage from 8 MPG up to around 17!! Rod sets are only about 8 bucks... and EASY to change... you don't even get your hands dirty!! And, by the way, go with the add on electric choke - it works like a charm!!