I'm in the process of gathering parts to rebuild my Ford 292. Engine is like new but has really low compression because of 312 rods which were installed by the machine shop (long story there).
With gas prices now and in the future, I think some increase in economy is required, and would like your input. Here is the motor's current stats, and my thoughts on some new one's:
Currently-
Bored .080 to 305 inches
Cam 270 duration, .420 lift (relatively low lift due to rocker ratio of 1.43
:1, with 1.54 rockers it would be .460),
Intake valves 1.92 and exhaust 1.51,
Dual exhaust with 1.75 inch pipes to 2 inch in/out mufflers, then to short
2 inch side turnouts with exit just behind cab,
aluminum 4V intake, dual plane, with 2V adaptor and 2V autolite,
compression now approx. 7.5:1,
rearend 3.00,
mpg approx 10,
Pertronix Ignition,
Idle vacuum 11.5,

Planned-
Cam 260 duration, lift .420
Increase exhaust valve size to 1.6, if it will fit
Increase compression to 9.5:1 with rods, .041 quench, and surfaced
heads.,
keep a 2V carb, but increase venturi size from 1.02 to 1.14,
rebalance motor,
replace flywheel with aluminum unit,
reuse pistons with new rings (pistons now have 500 miles on them)
Total vehicle weight is 2750 lbs wet, and its a 46 1/2 ton Ford truck.

Thoughts or suggestions?