351M to 400 on budget (cam help)

[enique]

Hey everyone,

To better understand what I'm trying to do, I think this fordmuscle.com/members/archives/2001/11/351M/index3.shtml will explain everything. I'm rebuilding a 351M and trying to get as much performance out of the motor, while still having the stock transmission, gears, etc. Just like in that article I would like to hit 375+ HP, which based on that article seems possible. My budget is about $1500. Main thing is I'm trying to choose the right cam for the job. I'd also like to have that choppy idle.

Project:
1977 Ford Thunderbird
Automatic FMX Transmission
Stock 351M

I've made a list of all the parts I plan to buy for this project. Any suggestions is definitely welcome. I've provided links to most of the parts, you will be able to get exact details of that part from the links.

Parts for project:
351M block bored to 0.030"
COMP Cams Thumpr 279TH7 (#32-600-5) (I was looking to see if they had the K-Kit, but no luck.)
COMP Cams timing, springs, retainers, valve seals, lifters.
Ford 400 crank
Keith Black 4.030" pistons
Stock connecting rods (Can I use the 351M connecting rods?)
Clevite main, rod, and cam bearings
Edelbrock Performer 2171 Intake Manifold[/URL]
Holley 650 CFM Carb 4-barrell
Stock Valves
Stock Rocker Arms
COMP Cams Hardened Push Rods
Melling High Volume Oil Pump

I plan to have the block and heads done the same way in this fordmuscle.com/members/archives/2001/11/351M/index3.shtml. Bored 30 over, block decked, mill head 0.025", cast-iron valve guides. I'm estimating this to be around $350 or more. Not sure if I can afford the 3 angle valve job. Just looking for any advice and a cam suggestion. Any help I can get is appreciated. If you need any more information from me, please let me know and I'll post it asap. Thank you for your time.

[enique]

Also, I had a question with this cam compcams.com/Cam_Specs/CamDetails.aspx?csid=1477&sb=2. I've noticed it doesn't have any installation noted like, requiring screw-in studs, guide plates, etc. Does it not require this or just haven't put that information up yet? Here is the cam they were using in the article compcams.com/Cam_Specs/CamDetails.aspx?csid=841&sb=2. If I go the route of their build and use that Thumpr cam, instead of the cam in the article, is there anything I should change? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you for your time.

[amick]

What will the compression ration in this engine be?

[enique]

It's going to have a compression ratio of about 9.45:1.

[amick]

I think the 32-600-5 279TH7 cam will work great for you in this setup. The cam should have plenty of bottom end to it and a good lope at idle. It will be a little short on vaccum if that is a concern for you. That cam kit does not require any machining for fitment. All in all your listed combination looks to be well thought out and should make for a good running motor.

[enique]

Thank you for the help. I have one more question. Is it going to need screw-in studs and guide plates like most of the other cams? Is that something a machine shop should do or can that be done on my own? Also, you think stock rocker arms should be fine? Again, thank you for the help.

[amick]

Yes sir you it would be recommended to convert to screw in studs and guide. It is something I would recommend letting your machine shop take care of. If you do convert to screw in studs and guide plates you will need to purchase new rocker arms.

[enique]

Thank you for the help and quick reply. What is the risk of not having them and is it a big risk? I'm on a budget and just would like to weigh the risk to cost. Thank you for all your help.