I just recently purchased a 64 ½ coup (has 289 engine) and I would like to make it completely reliable give it some power as well. From the little I know and from what I was able to research, it looks like I will to rebuild my engine along with upgrade to a 4-barrel carburetor and switch from manifolds to headers… aside from that, I know nothing! People have mentioned to me an Edelbrock carb is the way to go, but I don’t know what size or which one to go with. Other people have said Hooker headers would work well, but they never mention which type…. I am sure you get the picture. So what should I do?! How should I start with the restoration of my car?

 

Welcome to the Classic section of the Mustang Forums. Most of us old mustangers will advise you to start with the safety features before you start with the drive train upgrades. That means converting the drum brakes to disk, and with a dual master cylinder. Safety belts are also another upgrade you need to think about. After that, there are about a million ways you can go to upgrade your 289. While one of us may say get the Weiand intake, others may say go with Edelbrock. Some of us prefer Motorcraft carburetors, while others prefer a myriad of other brands. They all have their good and down sides. Just head toward getting a 4 barrell system that matches. Another important thing to remember is to get as much aluminum on the top of that engine as possible. Also important to remember is that you want your engine to breathe as best as it can. That includes a good set of headers, X or H pipe, and dual exhaust. I realize these are not definitive answers, but as you can see, there are just too many good choices out there to advise on any one particular system. Do your reasearch......

 

Soaring gives great advice as always...i went with an edelbrock carb for my eng. if you go to one of these consider changing to a performer intake as well, and good advice on the aluminum. also consider upgrading your cooling system if you do add more horse power. i.e. a high flow water pump.