Tri Power

[stock63futura]

I just got a hold of a Tri Power set up. I am buying the head with carbs and intake already installed. I was just wondering if you guys had any advice on putting this head on my block.
I am excited to put it together, but dont want to make any stupid mistakes along the way. I have a pretty much stock 170, the small upgrades I have done include- electronic ignition/flame thrower coil, and I am getting CI headers with the tri-power head.

-Brian

 

[CoupeBoy]

When bolting on the new head you should measure the current engine and determine your compression ratio with a current (thicker) head gasket, you may need to shave the head to keep the compression the same as the current head. Also when you have the head off that would be the perfect time to put in a new cam to take advantage of the increased performance of the tri-carb and header.

-ron

 

[stock63futura]

Is it necessary for the compression to be the same? I know the new head has been machined for increased compression. I was under the impression more compression is better for performance.

-Brian

 

[Gene Fiore]

Is it necessary for the compression to be the same? I know the new head has been machined for increased compression. I was under the impression more compression is better for performance.

-Brian

You just don't want to lose any compression...that would rob power and reduce the effects of the tri-power setup. I agree that a cam swap would definately get you better results with the extra carburation.

 

[Invectivus]

I think the concern is that taking a head from a 200 will lower the compression on a 170, which stock has less chamber volume. basically CC your chambers and compare the old head to new, to see if your compression would drop below a realistic level.

 

[powerband]

I think the concern is that taking a head from a 200 will lower the compression on a 170, which stock has less chamber volume. basically CC your chambers and compare the old head to new, to see if your compression would drop below a realistic level.

> not so much the 200 head vs 170 chamber volume being the problem as much as different generations changing chamber volumes thru the years ( afaih same heads on same year 170's and 200's. ) . Measuring volume chamber and deck height is really only way to verify the compression ratio with gasket thikness figured in. The 170 actually still has the thin steel shim gaskets fairly available which use .025 thickness for CR calc'.

The 144 and 170 steel shim OEM Ford: CODE-6051C as well as Fel-Pro 7916 SH, Victor 1163BS and other 144/170 DO NOT fit 200/250 no matter what the E-Bay seller says, 144/170's have 3.75 cyl. bore and 200/250 have 3.81" cyl. bore.

It's very likely stock63futura' head machining removed the typical .030-.050 (@) to compensate for additional "modern" composite gasket thicknesses of @ .045".

HAve Fun

 

[stock63futura]

Does anyone know where I can buy the fuel lines? Any suggestions on rather to go braided or fixed lines?

-Brian

 

[CoupeBoy]

custom flare brake lines and use brass fittings
or
barbed fittings and fuel safe rubber hose

-ron

 

[datac]

As mentioned previously, just get a cheapie tube bender and some steel lines. Flex lines look sloppy IMHO.