289 rods

Can you run a 289 rod in a otherwise stock 302? are the same pistons compatible or will they come to far out of the cylinder?

Depends on how far the pistons are down in the hole to begin with. I found a '74 302 once that the pistons were .055" down, used 289 rods and they stuck out about .010". Ran good, though not worth having it all re-balanced.

Normally early 302s only have a few thousands deck clearance.A 289 rod would put the piston well out of the block.Ford power parts used to make a piston just for this purpose but I don't know if they are still in business.They were also cut for 1.94 and 1.60 valves also.Hope this helps.