I have a 1959 Ford Fairlane that I am planning to restore. I was wondering if I should go with the original 292 or boost it up to a 302 police interceptor. I would like to kee it mainly all original, but I would gladly sacrifice something for a little more performance. Any suggestions about any aspect of it would be appreciated.
2007-03-02 15:45:45 · 7 answers · asked by chieffan50 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ Ford
The engine bay will fit almost any engine WITH THE CORRECT EXHAUST manifolds or header made to fit. The steering box is in the way of many header sets. The 312 is an interesting appearing motor but does not offer much more power. 1959 was the last year of the 292-312 and the beginning of a 332-428 (FE) series. The older (before 66) 390, 428, 427 will bolt in with the correct exhaust and give a large boost in power. A 352 might be an adequate compromise. I had a 1959 Edsel with a 427 that was fun to drive, but when you add power to one of these older cars, you must also think of stopping it with bigger brakes (the station wagon (3 in) drums and shoes are the same as the police interceptor and bolt right on (front and back). With quality shoes (Graylock or Carbon) they work very well
2007-03-03 04:22:23 · answer #1 · answered by a simple man 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it would be wise to stick with the original motor. A 312 would certainly be nice (and maintain the original appearance), but it's hardly worth the effort. Considering you're restoring a '59 Fairlane and not a '69 Mustang, you should be more concerned with keeping things original than performance. The 302 or FE engines will only ruin the restoration and destroy what little gas mileage you might have with the 292. Besides, then you'll need to upgrade your suspension, brakes, etc. A 292 with a nice 4bbl should have plenty of power, although you might also look for a performance shop that specializes in Y-blocks to liven up the engine some more.
Good luck with your restoration!
2007-03-03 16:02:48 · answer #2 · answered by John 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ford racing should have a crate that will fit it. All orginial or restorod? I think I would prefer the restorod. A fuel injected engine with the computer control for the igntion. That way I can depend on it and enjoy it without too much work. Your call, your car.
2007-03-03 02:59:57 · answer #3 · answered by Fordman 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As a owner of a classic Ford I would sugest that you use the more modern motor.
You can make it look like the origional but have a more reliable powerplant.
2007-03-02 23:52:51 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you want to keep it factory you might look around for a 312 police engine to put in it. That will give you more zip and still would be origonal. I believe they called them Turnpike Cruiser engines.
2007-03-02 23:55:47 · answer #5 · answered by Gordon S 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A 352 or a 390 would be a bolt in, definitely increase performance and be more in keeping it true to period if not original.........heres a site devoted to the '59 fords......beautiful cars. http://www.59ford.com/themainpage.html
2007-03-03 00:01:50 · answer #6 · answered by Shale S 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
if you keep it original it will be Worth more $$$$$
2007-03-03 03:49:05 · answer #7 · answered by Sean T 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋