If it has a Performer 289 I'd keep that manifold if it's gonna be a street car/DD. It'll make decent top end horsepower but still have VERY strong bottom end and midrange torque, and it'll save you a bit of money(important on a budget). If you're gonna get on it on a regular basis, DEFINATELY get ARP upgraded rod bolts, the factory rod bolts were flimsy at best(but you won't really know what it has until you crack it open and find out). Aftermarket aluminum heads will make the best power, but will eat up a substantial portion of, if not all of your budget. If the carb is 600cfm and works, then keep that as well, or just get a rebuild kit. I'd stay away from a high pressure oil pump unless you run large bearing clearances, high volume is decent though.

In all honesty though, if you're rebuilding this engine on a $1,500 budget, don't expect much, the old saying is cheap, reliable, powerful...pick 2. $1,500 ain't much to rebuild a stock(if that's what it is mostly) 289 and have a powerful street engine that's reliable enough to drive regularly. You can definately build a decent running engine with good performance, but it won't be anything spectacular. So just don't get your hopes up. Engines are an expensive toy.

 

1500 is a drop in the bucket.Why do you want to re-build?Is the engine toast?If not, start with the easy stuff like upgrade ignition -distributer,wires,coil,ignition box,plugs.-Then as you learn move to other up-grades.I suggets open exhaust so its really loud and maybee some 17" wheels....just to p-off soaring!!!

 

it might be more than 1500 not sure yet. I need to replace the floor panel, gas tank, and trunk floor. so thats money their..what i have left over i want to fix up the engine get a new exhaust/headers. stuff like that..You know of any good long tube headers? And i dont even know what to do yet until i find out if its a hipo or not. If its a hipo im going to try and keep it as is the best i can..if its not im throwin alot into it. Im just tired of sitting on the side of the road to fix stupid stuff haha..and its not a daily driver..just a hobby that i drive sometimes and keep out of the rain

 

If it's a hooby, it'll end up being a weekend warrior, and you'll spend $1,500 on it.......PER MONTH!!!