I read something once (think it was in the tech section of this web site) that the typical replacement pistons being peddled for 289 / 302's results in a half-point compression drop due to a slightly lower top of piston height. You have to check the TDC of the piston to make sure it's not sitting too low below the block deck surface.
http://66.96.130.106/members/archive...r/index2.shtml
Also, underwhelming performance comes from underwhelming camshafts. Not sure where that camshaft falls in the 'performance' profile...? Lift numbers?
But, even so I'd still recommend the dual exhaust and tri-y headers. You will be able to feel the difference. I'd probably try to shop the headers in person first so I could look at the quality & collector design near the last collector. Some of the brands are not very good down there regardless of nickel or ceramic plated. I'd probably stick with 2" for your engine, but 2-1/4 would probably help the top-end.
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'67 Mustang fastback / 5.0 EFI / AOD / TCP r&p
<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: kewolfe on 10/5/03 2:06am ]</font>
<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: kewolfe on 10/5/03 2:12am ]</font>