289 vs 302: HP, Blocks all explained
Automobile giants, Ford has pride its self as one the biggest brands in the auto world. Surprisingly, many car enthusiasts have little knowledge about their vehicles.
Established in 1903, Ford has been producing cars, trucks, and tractors, and are adjudged to have some of the best car engines.
Since their existence, they have magnificently, produced iconic Ford engines, popular amongst them is 289 and 302.
Not many can spot the difference between these two and this is the area of focus in this post.
In 1962, the 289 Ford block engine was launched as a V8 engine meant for all of their models.
The 289 engine was an excellent proposition for car purchasers, with tiny dimensions, a lightweight, and adequate power.
The HiPo 289 had a factory-tuned engine with the same displacement but tougher internals, a four-barrel throttle, and an absorption design resulting in having other engine models.
With time, it became necessary for the automobile giants (Ford) to upgrade, which in 1990-2000, a variety of the Ford engines can be found in the aftermarket.
The introduction of 302 blocks and 501 seems to have taken away the sophistication dexterity of the 289 engine, be thou as it may, it is still considered among the best.
If you’re not an ardent lover of the Ford vehicles, knowing the difference between the engines may be difficult, which a lot think they are the same, but comes in various sizes as it relates to vehicle type.
For example, there has been a long debate on the 289 and 302 engines, on whether they are the same since they look alike.
Contents
Are 289 and 302 blocks the same?
289 and 302 blocks share similitude in terms of pistons. The pistons are identical in both of them.
A close look and knowledge of both engines can help you tell the modification.
The 389 and 302 have a little resemblance but you can find a slight contrast.
Strikingly, the difference between 289 and 302 points out that the 302 has a 3.00″ stroke compared to the 289.
The 302 compensates for the increased 1/16″ crank spin having connecting rods that are 1/16″ shorter.
Is 289 or 302 better?
Both engines are great, nonetheless, it is normal to have preference over one.
While you decide, what should come to your mind when accessing both engines is the size and compatibility.
The 289 is classified as a small block V8 engine. The 302, on the other hand, was regarded as a makeshift engine by the auto company to avoid using additional block size in a model.
How much HP can get out of a 289?
You can get out of a 289 to 351HP from a high-performance block.
In as much as you want a high horsepower(Hp), try not to go above 400, as it hampers the performance.
What a block can handle may depend on the well-being. A 302 can often manage 450-550 pounds.
With the right tuning, you can get up to 600 horsepower. It may last for years, but with time, the block may become overworked. Best, is not exceeding 550HP.
How do you tell a ford 289 from a 302?
A seasoned Ford driver may tell the difference, for a novice, that can be pretty tough. To clear you on that, some of the differences are listed as follows:
- The 302 cranks will offer a little more torque and a higher pressure ratio than the 289 engine.
- The stroke of the 302 cranks is significantly longer. While on the 289, the pin height of the piston is slightly different. All of the components, including rings, bearings, and heads, can be swapped out. between them.
- Another difference is in terms of weight. The 289 engine is lighter in weight than the 302 and is more fuel-efficient
- Alteration in date code: Take a close look at the two, once the date code on the block is before 68, it should be a 289 and not 302.
- Modifications on the moulding
Another simple way to spot a difference is from the moulding. What can you find? You see indications like CX, DX, EX, and FX. These are periods when it was first manufactured. Therefore, the moulding you see on the engine block explains the difference.
- The dipstick was in the timing cover of measuring rod 289. This can be disappointing because the timing cover may be covered by a seal. If it isn’t there, ask your car technician for assistance.
- A cast boss for a clutch linkage was present on early 289 blocks, but not on a 302 block. The bore length can be measured from inside the block. A 289’s end bore is somewhat shorter.
Is the Ford 289 a good engine?
Even though that Ford 289 engine is lower than recent ford engines, it is good and serves effectively.
The introduction of other higher blocks did not take away its efficiency. To date, it is still used in Ford SUVs and Trucks.
Just as stated earlier, the main difference between the two is in the blocks. Interestingly, if you so desire, you can rebuild to 302 blocks.
Final words
The 289 and 302 Ford engines are great. The clear difference between the two is in the area of blocks.
Other things may be insignificant so long, the engine is okay.
Normally, when an auto company phased out a component or brand, users go for the most recent, trusting that it will serve better, however, a car’s performance is influenced by several elements, the engine is like the overall condition of the car;
as it believed that if the engine is good, certainly, the car is good. As for Ford, all the engine models are good. Whether you’re opting for the 289 or 302, they perform an equal function.
While making your choice, you may want to include factors like horsepower to weight ratio, bearings, and gears. The 289 blocks handle a smaller horsepower, while the horsepower for the 302 is higher.
If you still find it challenging to know the difference, get you auto mechanic to guide you through!