Post #5 Engine Mods

The engine needs some updating to help with performance and durability.  Parts ordered today:

Serpentine belt, this will help increase performance and reliability.  One belt versus multiple.  Summit Racing had the right one and it was priced reasonably.  This will give the engine a sharp look with the engine painted Ford Blue.  A side note: Ford didn't have the blue until 66, but I think this looks a hell of a lot better over the black.   Chrome valve covers and polished air cleaner covers will top off the mods.  As well as a chrome export brace and strut brace.  The entire engine will be blasted, sanded and repainted.  This will give PMP the chance to Inspect and repair any damaged or substandard areas.  Headers will be polished as well. I really am spending most of my time and money on the engine compartment and paint.  Since that is the area most susceptible to the environment.   The interior can be done over time.  The paint should be done right the first time.  Do overs are costly with that section.

A Derale shrouded puller fan and new aluminum radiator.  This is a necessity in an environment like Arkansas during the summer months.  I also bought a fan control unit to turn the fan on and off at a specific temps.  If you are considering a puller versus a pusher you should look at whether you have a 2 or 3 core radiator, the amount of horsepower your pushing out, and the look your going for.  The difference being one pulls the air through the radiator, the other pushes, hence the name.   I personally didn't want a rock or a lot of bugs hitting the fan blades if it was front radiator mounted as with a pusher fan.  Therefore mine will be mounted on the backside of the radiator. Plus everyone I talked to told me puller will work better in this application.  Electric fans will cool an engine and radiator down considerably versus a traditional belt driven one.  Typically on a V8 basic 289 model, you're looking for a CFM (cubic feet per minute) of around 2200-3000.  The one from Derale tops at 2200 for this model.  The more horsepower the more CFM you need to pull. Especially if you have an A/C unit, my does not. Be careful about buying cheaper versions online that have a fan installed on the radiator.  Most likely they are cheap plastic and low CFM.  In reality if you paying less than 300 for the combo you're probably going to be replacing one or two by the time the better quality one craps itself.