Thread: 200 sprint to 289 conversion

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alrighty so I'm getting ready to convert my 66 mustang from a 200 sprint to a 289, so i need to know everything required to make this happen, i already know I'm going to need new gas pedal linkage, and exhaust, and of course the 289, what else do I need? thanks

I would recommend finding a complete rough parts car so you can get all you need at one time.

ok not so bad really,i did a little investigating myself, i've got a shelby 289 pulled out of a totalled 66 sheldby car, been sitting for 30 years so it needs a rebuild, its got the transmission attached to it, has all the accessories with brackets, i can get a brandnew V8 radiator for $60 from the classic mustang shop out here in el cajon, a full v8 conversion frontend kit for $350, a used rearend for $375, and rear suspension for $200, engine bay wiring harnes(just the part thats needed for the coil and gauges) $10, so its gonna cost me about $3000 after i rebuild that shelby engine and have the transmission rebuilt by my super cool transmission guy, he does c4 rebuilds for $300

Sure it can cost a lot. Then again if you shop around there are good deals. New three row exact fit radiator from Performance is 154 bucks including two day ups shipping. I suppose you could tip the guy in brown 46 bucks if it didn't feel right.

Should be able to do the entire front end with all new parts less the V8 spindles and backing plates for under a thousand. That includes the rear springs and bushings and u-bolts. The rear end leaves some choices up in the air. Go with an eight inch from another Mustang or search around for deals. Typically housings can be narrowed for about a hundred and axles run 300 to 400 new with studs and bearings. Ranger 8.8's can be modified pretty easily for this app too.

The key is to shop. You can make it cost as much or as little as you are willing to wait for. The major cost involved is labor if you don't do it yourself.

I'm into a nine inch rear with 4.11 gears a locker and Dutchman axles with disc brakes for about 1200 bucks. Part of that deal is three more housings, four center sections (two track locks) and more old style disc brake hardware and a pile of axles. I will build another center for mine and sell off the rest to recoup my investment.

yes, these prices are correct, for used parts from a reputable mustang shop that refurbishes used parts for resale, and because the company is for sale right the owner Gary Gunter is selling all parts for half off, plus his mechanic is a good man Chris Mott president of the mustang club and has many cars that have been shown in magazines, plus the shop has been around for over 20 years, so i trust these guys with the information they give me