1981 Ford F-150 Pickup Performance Engines

Essential 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup 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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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.5870)

Ultra Seal: Valve Cover Gasket Set

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$36.49
Ultra-Seal is Mr. Gasket premium valve cover gasket material. It’s manufactured from a high density cork and rubber blend with a black latex coat applied to the outside to help seal minor flange irregularites and eliminate oil leakage. It creates a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot oil. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use. Sold as a pair. These gaskets are .187 inch thick.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork /rubber blend gasket material
  • A black latex rubber coating is applied to outside of gasket to help seal minor flange irregularities and eliminate the possibility of oil leakage
  • Creates a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot engine oil
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track
  • .187″ thick
  • Handles Ex Flange Pressure
  • Forms Leak Proof Seal
  • Black Latex Coating
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.223)

Intake Gasket

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$35.99
Mr. Gasket Performance Intake Gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. This is a low density material that conforms well to irregular surfaces and has very good crush resistance at high flange pressures. They provide excellent sealing and durability as the material is designed for sealing gasoline, oils, water and coolant in applications up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While die-cut for an excellent fit, they can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications. Comes complete with front & rear manifold end seals. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.brbrFits 1977-1997 Ford Small Block 351 Windsor 2 or 4-barrel.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Die-cut for an excellent fit
  • Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications
  • Complete with manifold end seals
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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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 351-W Intake Manifold for S/B Ford 351 Windsor (Part No.2181)

Performer 351-W Intake Manifold for S/B Ford 351 Windsor

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$382.99


Product Features:
  • For Idle to 5500 RPM Street-Driven Performance
  • Stock Replacement
  • 50-State Street Legal
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1811)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

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$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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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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B & M – Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400 (Part No.40438)

Torque Converter, Tork Master 2400

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$605.99
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.

Product Features:
  • New Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Pressure Tested
  • Fully Balanced
  • Needle Thrust Bearing
  • New Thrust Washer
  • Washer Between Turbine and Cover
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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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Competition Cams – Mutha’ Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Roller Cam (Part No.32-601-8)

Mutha' Thumpr 235/249 Hydraulic Roller Cam

from

$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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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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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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Edelbrock – Sure Seat Valve Springs for Ford 351M/400 V8 1971-1982 (Part No.5872)

Sure Seat Valve Springs for Ford 351M/400 V8 1971-1982

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$59.99
Product Features:
  • Non-Rotator Type
  • 1.400 in. Outer Diameter
  • 1.000 in. Inner Diameter
  • 1.000 in. Coil Blind
  • Set of 16
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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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Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for Ford 289-302 (Part No.9655)

Pushrod Set for Ford 289-302

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$208.99
Edelbrock part #9655 Pushrods are designed for small-block Ford 289-302 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 precis

Product Features:
  • 6.4 in. Length
  • 0.312 in. Diameter
  • 4130 Chromoly Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
  • Made In The USA
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Edelbrock – 289-302 Ford Head Bolt Kit (Part No.8552)

289-302 Ford Head Bolt Kit

from

$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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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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Mr. Gasket – Rear Main Seal Gasket (Part No.30)

Rear Main Seal Gasket

from

$42.49
This Mr. Gasket Rear Main Seal is made from silicone to allow the seal to handle extreme engine oil temperature. It is a direct replacement for a factory one-piece rubber main seal. It’s also injection molded for a precise fit.

Product Features:
  • Repairs that leaky rear main seal
  • Direct replacement for stock one-piece seal
  • Silicone rubber to withstand extreme oil temperatures
  • Injection molded for precise fit
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2941)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

from

$48.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • PTFE offers the best in fluid and high-temperature compatibility and contact sealing surface can run on undersize shafts, seal minor imperfections and virtually eliminate shaft wear.
  • 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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FEL-PRO Performance – Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts (Part No.1011-2)

Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts

from

$55.99
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.7328)

Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Ford

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$62.99
Product Features:
  • Cylinder Head Gasket
  • 1970-1974 351c / 1975 1985 351m / 1971-1981 400m
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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 – Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set (Part No.7820)

Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set

from

$67.99


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
  • For Engine with One-Piece Fuel Pump Eccentric
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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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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit (Part No.7847)

Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit

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$38.49
Mr. Gasket Harmonic Balancer Bolt for Ford V8 except 351C. Fits 221,260,289,302,351W small block Windsor engines, 332,352,360,390,406,410,427,428 FEs, and 429,460 385 series big blocks. 5/8-18 x 2 inch long heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 alloy steel with a thick parallel ground washer to provide accurate, uniform torque.

Product Features:
  • Heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 alloy steel
  • Thick parallel ground washer provides more accurate, uniform torque
  • Hex Prevents Socket Slippage
  • Accurate And Uniform Torque
  • Black Plated Finish
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Edelbrock – Performer Small-Block Ford 1.90" Cylinder Head Hydraulic Flat Tappet (Part No.60329)

Performer Small-Block Ford 1.90" Cylinder Head Hydraulic Flat Tappet

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$1035.99
50 state street legal aluminum cylinder head. Out-of-the-box bolt-on performance. Intake valves are used for stock pistons.

Product Features:
  • 50-State Street Legal Aluminum Cylinder Head
  • Out-of-the-Box Bolt-On Performance
  • Intake Valves Are For Use w/Stock Pistons
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Edelbrock – Performer Small-Block Ford 5.0L/ 5.0L Cylinder Head 2.02" Bare (Part No.60389)

Performer Small-Block Ford 5.0L/ 5.0L Cylinder Head 2.02" Bare

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$594.99


Product Features:
  • 50-State Street Legal Aluminum Cylinder Head
  • Out-of-the-Box Bolt-On Performance
  • Hand-Blended Intake and Exhaust Bowls
  • CNC-Matched Intake/Exhaust Ports in Std Location
  • Thicker Deck Surfaces than Other Brands
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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

from

$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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1981 Ford F-150 Pickup Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 73 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup. 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 88 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup 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 F-150 Pickup 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup, 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup?

Out of 73 Performance Engines for the 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup, 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 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 Ford F-150 Pickup 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.”