Re: 359 intake/exhaust

Posted by TxGoat On 2023/12/29 15:08:22

First, be sure your engine and transmission are performing as they should now.

*Be certain that the manifold heat valve isn't stuck shut or partway shut.*

Adding the different intake probably wouldn't make much difference as a stand alone modification, and it might have a negative effect.

The only likely benefit would be modest, and only at or near wide open throttle at higher engine speeds.

Raising compression will improve performance and economy. I'd look into that before changing the intake.

It's usually worthwhile to look for any un-needed weight the car may be carrying, and get rid of it, and be sure the brakes aren't dragging, that the tires are appropriate for the car, that the intake and exhaust are unrestricted, etc.

A well-tuned engine that is in good condition ought to give good performance at low and intermediate speeds. Older Packards usually had enough torque to get the car moving briskly.

Flatheads can run out of breath at highway speeds, especially at higher elevations and in hot weather.

Improving that usually requires an holistic approach, which can get pricey, especially if you step outside the Ford/Chevrolet boundaries.