View Full Version : Upgrade to MK3
clays123
08-01-2021, 05:34 PM
Looking to upgrade my MK3 starting with the engine while adding some HP(maybe 100 to 150). Car was built from a 1994 Mustang GT, complete donor and everything still stock.
Idea is start out with the EFI Holly Sniper, new intake manifold, new distributor, coil etc. Not sure what cylinder head to go with, still trying to figure that out.
Any serious recommendations?
mburger
08-01-2021, 08:20 PM
I would compare the cost of all the individual components you are going to purchase, plus your time with the cost of a crate engine like Blueprint and their warranty.
I'm not suggesting it would be less expensive for the crate engine, but I think worth comparing the numbers. There's something to be said for a fresh engine with a warranty and proven hp/tq performance.
There's also TRE Performance for complete top end kits. https://treperformance.com/c-330056-top-end-engine-kits-ford-top-end-engine-kits.html
For comparison, my 347 at 439/439 is very manageable on the street, so don't be shy about bumping up those numbers! :-)
clays123
08-01-2021, 09:34 PM
I would compare the cost of all the individual components you are going to purchase, plus your time with the cost of a crate engine like Blueprint and their warranty.
I'm not suggesting it would be less expensive for the crate engine, but I think worth comparing the numbers. There's something to be said for a fresh engine with a warranty and proven hp/tq performance.
There's also TRE Performance for complete top end kits. https://treperformance.com/c-330056-top-end-engine-kits-ford-top-end-engine-kits.html
For comparison, my 347 at 439/439 is very manageable on the street, so don't be shy about bumping up those numbers! :-)
This is a good start. I did consider the new engine would prefer not to go down that option, too expensive. I am thinking upgrading the top end. Thanks for your suggestion. I looked at True Performance, a possibility.
johnnybgoode
08-02-2021, 12:32 PM
A friend of mine just bought a set of the new AFR 185 Enforcer as cast SBF cylinder heads. They look quite nice and use all the same components as the more expensive CNC heads but you can get them for a grand or less. Trickflow also sells heads for stock 302/5.0 upgrades. Pair a set of either with a Performer RPM Air-Gap intake and you are well on your way. Give Comp a call and they can help you pick a cam for the combo you decide on. Typically you can not go wrong with a good set of aftermarket heads. Just make sure you do the homework to make sure everything will work with your combo. Scott
AC Bill
08-02-2021, 02:00 PM
Adding 100 to 150 horses to your engine, may come at quite a price, even with just adding bolt-on power adders. 50-60 hp may be more realistic, if your on a budget.
Mustang owners forums mention adding a supercharger, for serious get up and go, with that engine.
clays123
08-03-2021, 03:46 PM
A friend of mine just bought a set of the new AFR 185 Enforcer as cast SBF cylinder heads. They look quite nice and use all the same components as the more expensive CNC heads but you can get them for a grand or less. Trickflow also sells heads for stock 302/5.0 upgrades. Pair a set of either with a Performer RPM Air-Gap intake and you are well on your way. Give Comp a call and they can help you pick a cam for the combo you decide on. Typically you can not go wrong with a good set of aftermarket heads. Just make sure you do the homework to make sure everything will work with your combo. Scott
Thanks very much for your information, I will look into your recommendations. You said to give Comp a call. I am not sure who that is though. Did you mean the Company. I already looked at the Trickflow but will still check the others for comparison.
johnnybgoode
08-03-2021, 04:05 PM
Thanks very much for your information, I will look into your recommendations. You said to give Comp a call. I am not sure who that is though. Did you mean the Company. I already looked at the Trickflow but will still check the others for comparison.
Sorry. I was suggesting you might want to call Comp Cams tech-line. If you tell them the specs of your motor they will help you choose the best cam for your application. https://www.compcams.com/contact-us
Scott
rich grsc
08-03-2021, 06:24 PM
Careful with comp cams, their online tech guys aren't always the most knowledgeable. I really have had good luck with Trickflow cams. I run a stage II and love it, that and they are billet steel cams so they run with a steel gear, just like the stock Ford distributers use.
clays123
08-03-2021, 08:34 PM
Sorry. I was suggesting you might want to call Comp Cams tech-line. If you tell them the specs of your motor they will help you choose the best cam for your application. https://www.compcams.com/contact-us
Scott
Thanks Scott, this info is very useful.
clays123
08-03-2021, 08:37 PM
Careful with comp cams, their online tech guys aren't always the most knowledgeable. I really have had good luck with Trickflow cams. I run a stage II and love it, that and they are billet steel cams so they run with a steel gear, just like the stock Ford distributers use.
Another friend recommended TRickflow or Skip White Performance, I intend to talk with their tech department. Thanks for the info.