Is it wise…
I have a 66 fastback, 289, 2-barrel carb, automatic trans. In its original condition. AM radio and all. Interested in putting in a 4-barrel carb and duel exhausts. Any recommendation what kind should I buy, and what other parts will be necessary to retain its value.

Thanks

 

Change the intake while you change the carb.

 

Since it is a fastback I would say if you want to retain the value keep the car stock. Hotrod parts do not increase the value of a car. The dual exhaust will not hurt value at all so I would say go ahead with that. Also, I'm not sure you will see much benifit from adding a 4bbl carb to a stock 2bbl motor. I think the stock 2bbl cars run quite good if you just make sure they are tuned right.

 

I also have a 2bbl 289 that i was thinking about switching to a 4bbl but i was going to use the original type cast iron manifold for the 4bbl to maintain the original look. The reason i want to switch is that i read post from some that say it improves gas mileage, but I dont know that for a fact. Im sure you will hear some say yea and just as many say no.
If you do please keep us updated, i am curious to know how it works out for you

 

You won't change gas mileage with either one - that's relative to your right foot and state of tune. A 4 barrel has potential to use more gas due to increase airflow potential, but unless you drive it more aggressive than the 2 barrel, you won't see a difference if it's set up right.

As for value, that's up to any buyers. A numbers matching type person will prefer it remain stock. A performance person like myself would prefer the 4 barrel done right. Flip a coin on that one.

 

If you're concerned about originality, keep the original parts. However, being a C code car doesn't exactly make it rare or desirable, aside from being a fastback.

I'd recommend a Weiand 8124 manifold. If you want it to look stock, grind off the logos with a dremel and paint it to match the block. Nobody will know unless they're really looking.

For the carb, I'd probably recommend an Autolite 4100. Factory carb on A code cars; they're about as simple as a carb gets, but they work great on a mostly stock engine. If you plan on doing more mods in the future, an Edelbrock 500CFM carb might be in order. Still the proper size (don't let anyone tell you you need a 600 or bigger) to keep good throttle response, it offers a little more adjustability for future endeavors.

 

Thank you Gentlemen
ESW