How many days do you think the build would take providing I have all of the components that I need? I have not built an entire engine yet. I have built a top end but nothing more. My dad is an old GM/Olds mechanic and can fix or build pretty much anything.

 

We went from bare block to in the car running in about 5 days.

For a first timer street block, figure that much just to do it all right.

You going carb or megasquirt injected?

 

Carb. I like to be able to tune everything myself instead of relying on a computer.

 

I've heard good things on the megasquirt, but also heard it's a steep learning curve to get there.

A 750 or 850 holley would go good with an MSD 6. I run a 6 plus for the 2-step and timing control.

 

I was planning on running a Holley 750 with an old (80s?) MSD 6a. Do any of the Ford axles have a 5x5.5 lug pattern? Or is that just Dodge?

 

no idea. Like i said, if you can't find the 9, the newer 8.8's under the explorer and expedition (mid 90's should be starting to appear in the junkyards) are equally as strong, so I've been told. The explorer would be pretty close to the dakota width, methinks.

 

Are the 8.8s lighter?

 

http://forums.corral.net/forums/gene...vs-9-inch.html

http://www.carcraft.com/techarticles...d/viewall.html

http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f12/9...s-both-617688/

Start there.

 

What cam specs would be best? I still want to in the teens with gas mileage.

 

no idea. TONS of variables in that department. I'm getting 11 right now with my 3-9, so "teens" isn't saying much.