Im in the process of researching parts for my 1968 Mustang 289 engine. I currently have an Isky 280 mega camshaft. I really liked how the engine ran with it, however it appears to be damaged and requires replacement. Im tempted to go with a roller camshaft, but really don't know too much about the advantages/disadvantages of going with a roller cam. If anyone can help me with this decision that'd be great???

Secondly, I am also planning to replace the heads. Im leaning towards AFR 165cc aluminum heads. The combustion chambers come in at 58cc but they would be willing to mill them down to as low as 54cc if i request it. It not like im trying to build a race car but would there be any significant change between the 58cc and 54cc combustion chamber? OR...would you recommend going with an edelbrock top end kit (#2091)?

I'd appreciate any input, suggestions...thanks

 

Flat tappet cam:
Pro's - cheap, does not require conversion parts
Cons - Break in requires careful control of rpm and oil type (MUST have high-zinc oil), not as durable as a roller setup, narrower power band

Roller cam:
Pro's - No break in, does not require special oil, wider power band, more power potential without sacrificing driveability, reduced friction for better efficiency, very durable
Cons - expensive, requires conversion parts

I have and would recommend Trick Flow heads. I've heard some bad things about the quality of AFR heads. Their valves and hardware are supposedly not fantastic, and they don't helicoil threads where other companies (like Edelbrock and Trick Flow) do.

Trick Flows utilize a twisted valve configuration, allowing you to run bigger valves without clearance issues, as well as unshrouding the valves in the chamber, further improving flow.

If you're going to rebuild the motor, chamber size isn't much of an issue because you'll be shopping for pistons anyway. Simply get a set of pistons that gives you the compression ratio you want with the chamber size you end up with.