1979 Ford Thunderbird Performance Engines

Essential 1979 Ford Thunderbird Performance Engines

Edelbrock – Water Pump for Small-Block Ford 351W in Black Finish (Part No.88433)

Water Pump for Small-Block Ford 351W in Black Finish

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$358.99
Edelbrock #88433 Water Pump Ford 1970-78 302 & 1970-87 351w v8 black ideal to prevent overheating in street rods and street machines, as well as in tow rigs and motorhomes. Using state-of-the-art racing technology, Edelbrock has designed these “super cool

Product Features:
  • Standard Impeller Rotation
  • 0.625 in. Pilot Shaft
  • 0.750 in. Ball/Ball Bearing
  • 5.70 in. Block To Hub Height
  • Black Finish
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Edelbrock – Performer 460 Intake Manifold #2166 for Ford 429/460, Non-EGR, Satin Finish (Part No.2166)

Performer 460 Intake Manifold #2166 for Ford 429/460, Non-EGR, Satin Finish

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$397.99
Product Features:
  • For Idle to 5500 RPM Street-Driven Performance
  • Dual-Plane Low-Rise Intake w/180 deg. Firing Order
  • Patented Runner Design Ensures Broad Torque Curve
  • Excellent Throttle Response and Mid-Range Power
  • Accepts Late-Model Choke; Waterneck; and HEI
  • Accepts A/C And Alternator
  • Accepts Exhaust Heated Chokes
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2948)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

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$49.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fluoroelastomer compound combines optimum resistance to heat, oils and abrasion for longivity.
  • Optimizes performance under high crankcase vacuum conditions, elevated temperatures and high RPM levels.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Edelbrock – 289-302 Ford Head Bolt Kit (Part No.8552)

289-302 Ford Head Bolt Kit

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$107.99


Product Features:
  • Highest Quality Head Bolts
  • Cold-Formed/Heat Treated
  • Ensures Molecular Integrity
  • Reduced Diameter Bolt Heads
  • Hardened/Parallel-Ground Washers Included
  • Rated At 170000 psi
  • Manufactured By ARP
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B & M – Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400 (Part No.50441)

Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400

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$450.99
A higher than stock stall speed as delivered by a B&M Converter will provide several advantages. The high stall converter allows the engine to launch the car at a higher RPM where more torque is available and increased strength. Due to torque converter co

Product Features:
  • New Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Pressure Tested
  • Fully Balanced
  • Needle Thrust Bearing
  • New Thrust Washer
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Mr. Gasket – Water Neck (Part No.9713)

Water Neck

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$48.09
Precision die cast, these water necks or thermostat housings are first polished to a high luster, then chrome plated. Comes with gasket and Allen head mounting bolts. Fits 1979-1997 Ford 5.0/5.8L V8s.

Product Features:
  • Chrome Plated For Great Looks
  • Includes Gasket & Mounting Bolts
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Competition Cams – Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Roller Cam (Part No.31-600-8)

Thumpr 227/241 Hydraulic Roller Cam

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$522.99
Designed to deliver an aggressive, hard-hitting exhaust note at idle, the Thumpr camshaft series from COMP Cams also delivers excellent horsepower gains and a broad torque curve. A perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods.

Product Features:
  • Early intake valve opening and long exhaust duration create optimum overlap for powerful, hard-hitting exhaust note.
  • Best with aftermarket converters and more rear gear.
  • Three unique cam designs for each application that deliver excellent horsepower gains and broad torque curve; perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods.
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FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 5 Piece Set (Part No.1246)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 5 Piece Set

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$39.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fel-Pro performance intake manifold gaskets have been tested with virtually all aftermarket cylinder head and intake manifold combinations.
  • Performance intake manifold gaskets designed without a metal core, to allow engine builders to trim the gasket for exact fit on modified ports.
  • Standard and Low riser
  • Printoseal elastomeric sealing beads to provide extra sealing strength around the intake port.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Competition Cams – Ultra-Gold ARC Rocker Set w/ 1.6 Ratio for Ford 289-351W w/ 3/8" Stud (Part No.19043-16)

Ultra-Gold ARC Rocker Set w/ 1.6 Ratio for Ford 289-351W w/ 3/8" Stud

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$427.99
These COMP Cams Ultra-Gold Aluminum Roller Rocker Arms with a 3/8″ stud diameter and 1.6 ratio are designed for Ford V8 289-302-351W applications. The new modern design features of these Ultra-Gold Rockers are proven to withstand extremely aggressive spring pressure and valve lift. Designed specifically for high performance street and race engines, the Ultra-Gold Aluminum Rocker Arms are precision CNC-machined to strict tolerances. Developed to meet the demands of professional engine builders, these rockers include features never before possible in an aluminum rocker arm.

Product Features:
  • CNC-machined, lightweight design removes weight and yields unrivaled quality and ratio accuracy
  • Designed for high performance street and race engines
  • Precision-sorted trunion bearings withstand elevated valve spring pressure and valve lift
  • Additional clearance, up to 1.650″ O.D. valve spring
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Manifold Bolts (Part No.958G)

Intake Manifold Bolts

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$19.99
These grade 5 hex head bolts are brite zinc plated for protection and appearance. Hardened flat washers provide uniform torque & prevent galling on aluminum manifolds. Includes twelve (12) 5/16 inch-18 x 2 inch bolts & washers

Product Features:
  • Hex Head
  • Zinc Plated
  • Ideal For Minimal Space
  • 12-Point Head And Flange
  • Zinc Plated For Protection
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Mr. Gasket – High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow (Part No.4364)

High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow

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$26.99
Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostats are designed to resist large variations of coolant pressure at high RPM (revolutions per minute). This allows them to fully open at correct temperature consistently regardless of engine RPM. The design also provides the high flow that engines operated a higher RPM need. This thermostat also features a copper/brass construction to further resist corrosion. Mr. Gasket High Performance / High Flow Thermostats are suitable for street, drag race, or oval track applications.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 180 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
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Edelbrock – Performer Small-Block Ford 2.02" Cylinder Head Hydraulic Flat Tappet (Part No.60359)

Performer Small-Block Ford 2.02" Cylinder Head Hydraulic Flat Tappet

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$893.99
Product Features:
  • Made of aluminum with a natural finish
  • 60cc chambers with 170cc intake ports
  • 2.02 in. intake and 1.60 in. exhaust valves
  • Includes intake valves, exhaust valve, valve springs, retainers, locks, guide plate and valve stem seals
  • Does not include damper spring, rocker arms, nuts and drilled steam holes
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Mr. Gasket – Precision Timing Tape (Part No.1594)

Precision Timing Tape

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$21.79
Precision timing tape can be used on a factory balancer to create HP through accurate timing, and makes setting valve lash simple.

Product Features:
  • 6 3¿8″ diameter
  • 6 3┐8″ diameter
  • 289-302-351 cu. in.
  • Increased Performance
  • Set Valve Lash At Proper Time
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1619)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

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$30.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Mr. Gasket – Cam Change Gaskets (Part No.4410)

Cam Change Gaskets

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$63.09
If you want to update just your camshaft and aren’t doing a complete engine overhaul, this kit contains all the gaskets needed to change out your camshaft. That way you don’t have to buy a complete gasket kit just to change the cam, but still can replace all the gaskets you should in the process.

Product Features:
  • Contains all the gaskets needed to change out your camshaft
  • Fuel Injector O-Ring Not Included
  • Meets Performance Standards
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus camshaft for Small-Block Ford 351W V-8 applications (Part No.2182)

Performer-Plus camshaft for Small-Block Ford 351W V-8 applications

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$339.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched to Edelbrock Performer Intakes
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Major Improvement in Throttle Response and Torque
  • Use For Daily Drivers/Trucks/Vans/RVs/4x4s
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1817)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

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$27.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Felcoid/Plus gaskets have a fiber sheet core and a latex rubber coating to eliminate potential leakage paths. The core material resists crushing and splitting, while providing excellent blowout resistance.
  • With steel core to provide ultimate excellent blowout resistance.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1811)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

from

$30.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Felcoid/Plus gaskets have a fiber sheet core and a latex rubber coating to eliminate potential leakage paths. The core material resists crushing and splitting, while providing excellent blowout resistance.
  • With steel core to provide ultimate excellent blowout resistance.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Edelbrock – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9724)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

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$100.99
Product Features:
  • Use W/ Valve Springs Part #5822, 5882, 5896, 5872, 5867, 5812, 5857
  • Set of 16
  • 1.50 in. Outside Diameter
  • Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
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Edelbrock – Sure Seat Valve Springs for Ford 429/460 V8 1969-1987 (Part No.5867)

Sure Seat Valve Springs for Ford 429/460 V8 1969-1987

from

$47.99
Complete kit includes retainers and locks. Springs made of highest quality spring wire. Springs precision wound to close tolerances. Includes superior quality steel retainers. Includes 7 degree heat-treated valve stem locks. Retainers and locks black oxide coated. Non-Rotator style: Dyno tested and street proven. Great match to Edelbrock camshaft kit.

Product Features:
  • For Use With Cast Iron Heads
  • Springs Made of Highest Quality Spring Wire
  • Springs Precision Wound To Close Tolerances
  • Use with Original Equipment Heads Only
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Edelbrock – Sure Seat Valve Springs for Chrysler 383-400-413-440 V8 1969-79 (Part No.5792)

Sure Seat Valve Springs for Chrysler 383-400-413-440 V8 1969-79

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$141.99
Product Features:
  • Non-Rotator Type
  • 1.550 in. Outer Diameter
  • .190 Wire Size
  • Single Coil Spring Type
  • Set of 16
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Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for Ford 351W (Part No.9659)

Pushrod Set for Ford 351W

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$190.99
Edelbrock part #9659 Pushrods are designed for small-block Ford 351W V-8 engine applications. These one-piece pushrods are manufactured from high quality 4130 Chromoly steel tubing that has been surface hardened for maximum durability. They have precise f

Product Features:
  • 7.7 in. Length
  • 0.312 in. Diameter
  • 4130 Chromoly Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
  • Made In The USA
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Competition Cams – PUSHROD SET, SBF HIGH ENERGY 1 ST (Part No.7831-16)

PUSHROD SET, SBF HIGH ENERGY 1 ST

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$75.99
High Energy Pushrods from COMP Cams are an affordable, high quality solution when building street rods, RVs and daily drivers. High Energy Pushrods have a durable one-piece construction that meets or exceeds all OE pushrod specifications and fit perfectly with High Energy and Magnum Rocker Arms.

Product Features:
  • 5/16″ diameter, 6.881″ length for Small Block Ford 255 and 302, ’65-up with Flat Tappet Cam
  • Best choice when building street rods, RVs or daily drivers
  • Meet or exceed all OE pushrod specifications
  • Mate perfectly with High Energy and Magnum Rockers
  • Durable one-piece construction
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Edelbrock – Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set (Part No.7821)

Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set

from

$81.99


Product Features:
  • Solid Bushing Chain Resists Stretching
  • For Use with Stock or Edelbrock Camshafts
  • Stressproof Steel Crank Gears
  • 3 Keyway Setting Points To Ensure Accurate Timing
  • True Bearing Surface Rolls with the Sprockets
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Edelbrock – TIMING CHAIN (Part No.7844)

TIMING CHAIN

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$29.99
Product Features:
  • Timing Chain Only
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FEL-PRO Performance – Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts (Part No.1018)

Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts

from

$49.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • PROPRIETARY COATING – Nonstick anti-friction coating seals small surface imperfections
  • NO RETORQUE DESIGN – Steel core helps eliminate the need for retorquing head bolts
  • SUPERIOR SEAL – Precise embossed Printoseal sealing beads at all vital areas to eliminate leak paths
  • STRONG AND DURABLE – Features graphite or reinforced fiber facing material and steel armor for strength and durability
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES – Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
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Edelbrock – Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Ford (Part No.7337)

Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Ford

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$61.99
Product Features:
  • Cylinder Head Gasket Set
  • 1958-1976 390-428
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Edelbrock – Engine Gasket Set (Head / Intake / Exhaust / Valve Cover) for Ford (Part No.7365)

Engine Gasket Set (Head / Intake / Exhaust / Valve Cover) for Ford

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$186.99
Product Features:
  • Head: 4.500″ Bore/0.048″ Thick/12.5cc Vol.
  • Intake: 1.98″x2.26″ Port/.060″ Thick
  • Exhaust: 1.50″x2.10″ Port
  • 5/16″ Valve Cover
  • Multi Piece Configuration
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1979 Ford Thunderbird Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1979 Ford Thunderbird. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 74 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $19.99 to $1,035.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1979 Ford Thunderbird running smoothly.

Performance Engines are only as good as their brand. We stock 6 different brands to make sure you have plenty of trusted parts to choose from for your 1979 Ford Thunderbird. Mr. Gasket, FEL-PRO Performance, and Edelbrock are just some of the brands we stock. Search for brands you know or compare prices and reviews to help you decide!

We know you’ll find the perfect Performance Engines for your 1979 Ford Thunderbird, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 86 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include 289-302 Ford Head Bolt Kit with 2.0 stars and Action +Plus; Intake Manifold with 3.5 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Performance Engines to keep your 1979 Ford Thunderbird rolling for years to come, look no further. Shop online and have your products shipped direct to your door, or pick up at the nearest Advance Auto Parts location today!

Performance Engines Brands To Make Your 1979 Ford Thunderbird Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1979 Ford Thunderbird demands trusted brand parts and products to keep it running. Many trusted brands of Performance Engines make up Advance Auto Parts’ inventory, and all are ready to help make your Thunderbird the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Performance Engines brands and parts.

Popular FEL-PRO Performance Performance Engines

We carry FEL-PRO Performance parts in our stock across Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets and Performance Engine Valve Cover Gasket Sets categories, plus more. For a 1979 Ford Thunderbird, our most popular FEL-PRO Performance Performance Engines include:
Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 11 Piece Set
from $33.99
(4)
Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 11 Piece Set
Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets
Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set
from $46.99
(1)
Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set
Performance Engine Valve Cover Gasket Sets
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
from $51.99
(2)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets

FAQs for 1979 Ford Thunderbird Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1979 Ford Thunderbird?

Out of 74 Performance Engines for the 1979 Ford Thunderbird, the most popular in our inventory are:
Intake Manifold Gasket for 1963-1996 Small-Block Fords
from $28.99
(1)
Intake Manifold Gasket for 1963-1996 Small-Block Fords
Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets
Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set
from $67.99
This product is not rated
Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set
Performance Engine Timing Sets and Components
Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit
from $38.49
This product is not rated
Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit
Performance Engine Harmonic Balancers

What are the top-rated 1979 Ford Thunderbird Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1979 Ford Thunderbird based on customer reviews/ratings are:
289-302 Ford Head Bolt Kit
from $107.99
(7)
289-302 Ford Head Bolt Kit
“Great quality bolts. They include thread locker. Would definitely recommend to anyone replacing their heads.”
Action +Plus; Intake Manifold
from $349.99
(2)
Action +Plus; Intake Manifold
“Nice clean intake lookes better than edelbrock”
Torker II 302 Intake Manifold Small-Block Ford
from $376.99
(1)
Torker II 302 Intake Manifold Small-Block Ford
“Nice looking product but mine was a used store return so I returned it.”