Question: I’m beginning to plan a 302 buildup for a custom car. I’d like to do >something that performs well, and looks exotic. Edelbrock has a dual quad >manifold that I’d really like to use. They recommend using their 500 CFM >carbs on this setup. >I was wondering of anyone has had any experience running a setup like this. > 1000 CFM seems like way too much carburation for the displacement. I was >under the impression that a SB ford is better off with something like 650 >CFM. I’m concerned that this combination would actually perform worse that >a single 4 barrel. >I have to be honest that the real reason I’d like to do this is for looks >(please no flames). I’d like to build and nice exotic looking SB Ford.

Answer: First: the original Ford 2 x 4-V setups used a sequential-type linkage, where only the primaries were used until approaching WOT condition…that means less than 1000 cfm at most speeds. This does not take into account a lead-foot condition, however.
Second: it is too much volume, unless you’re cruising along at about 7000rpm !
Third: it is better than a single 4-V for several reasons, but these reasons are also conditional. Under most conditions, a daily driver would see litle or no improvement…and, yes, its likely you would lose mileage. For a bone-stock 1968 302 4-V (which has the highest c/r of all the standard 302s), I’d bet the optimum carb rate is lower than 650 – more like 500 cfm. This can only be determined via dyno, so don’t use a formula.
Fourth: what’s wrong with having a cool-looking engine? Don’t worry about what others think – build your car up the way you like it and be happy with the results, Ok?

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