SAAC Forum

I've noticed recently with some Dragonsnake listings and other Cobra ads that 289 engine upgrades were offered as Stage I/II/III. Can anyone explain the differences each of the stages offered?

For sale is an excellent condition reproduction Cobra cast aluminum oil pan for 289/302s in 65-73 Ford Mustangs and 65/66 Shelby GT350s. Purchased from Tony Branda Parts and currently selling new for $610; asking $400 + shipping from 90503.

•   7.5 qt total capacity (6.5 qt in pan, 1 qt in filter)
•   Outside fins and “COBRA” polished, like original
•   Features the original design of hinged "trap door" baffles to help control oil slosh, however, one of the two doors is missing. It would be easy to fabricate though.
•   Inside lip has been enlarged for easier installation with oil pickup
•   Casting areas around bolt heads have been smoothed to allow easier installation
•   Pan has been professionally drilled/tapped for ½-NPT (plug included), for use with most oil temp senders
•   Can use stock pickup (included)
•   Can use stock dipstick (not included)
•   Includes drain plug
•   Includes ’66 GT350 correct bolts, which work on any 289/302. However, using studs or Torx/Allen-head fasteners would work best since it’s difficult to get a socket or wrench on many of the bolts, with this pan’s design.
•   Uses standard Ford 289 oil pan gasket set (4-piece) (not included)

Thanks!
Brent

I was recently in a discussion with another SA enthusiast and on his car he'd installed approx 1/2" spacers in-between the upper shock mount and the tower bracket. I've also seen OVC Mustang's replica r-models with this mod. This enthusiast stated it was a Phil R. mod for r-models but it's something I haven't seen documented anywhere in the past.

I can see the benefit of moving up the shocks, if you've lowered the car, to restore them to their optimal operational range and prevent bottoming out but I'm more interested if it was a mod done in the 60s or something created recently.

Thanks!
Brent