Minimum bore amount? Max valve size?

[350kmileford]

Well here's the situation. I plan to buy another car, but I'll need to save for 4-5 months. This is is why I wanted to spend a minimal amount.

I need to get the Mustang running solid soon. If I'm installing a different head, I might as well spend just a few hundred additional dollars and put in a cam and exhaust. Again, it is geared really low right now and with the freeway commute I might as well put in a cam that likes the higher rpm range, no? The engine really strains at higher rpms and any slight hills or passing efforts are near impossible. My other option is to spend a lot of money and rebuild the spare block and at the same time install the T5 that I've had sitting around for a while; then drop in the new combo. But the parts for all that would exceed 2 grand. I don't really want to put on a new head and use a 1 barrel again. If I do a direct mount 2 barrel, I don't want to stay with the (conservative) stock cam. I also wanted to do the work with the engine in the car because I have experience disassembling/reassembling engines, yet I've never removed or installed an engine from a car. I also don't have an engine hoist.

 

[Lazy JW]

Well here's the situation. I plan to buy another car, but I'll need to save for 4-5 months. This is is why I wanted to spend a minimal amount.

I need to get the Mustang running solid soon. If I'm installing a different head, I might as well spend just a few hundred additional dollars and put in a cam and exhaust. Again, it is geared really low right now and with the freeway commute I might as well put in a cam that likes the higher rpm range, no? The engine really strains at higher rpms and any slight hills or passing efforts are near impossible. My other option is to spend a lot of money and rebuild the spare block and at the same time install the T5 that I've had sitting around for a while; then drop in the new combo. But the parts for all that would exceed 2 grand. I don't really want to put on a new head and use a 1 barrel again. If I do a direct mount 2 barrel, I don't want to stay with the (conservative) stock cam. I also wanted to do the work with the engine in the car because I have experience disassembling/reassembling engines, yet I've never removed or installed an engine from a car. I also don't have an engine hoist.

What you are planning is certainly doable, so don't let any of us discourage you (including me). What we (I) want to do is help you be aware of the potential pitfalls so you can make a comprehensive plan with an alternate backup plan if at all possible.

Get the pieces/parts together, make a checklist and go over it carefully. Then make a written plan detailing each part that needs to be removed, and the tools required for each step. Go over this plan, maybe even post it here for advice/suggestions. This project can be done by yourself in two long days. When all is ready, plan for a three day weekend and go for it!
Joe