1981 Ford Thunderbird Performance and Racing Products

Essential 1981 Ford Thunderbird Performance and Racing Products

Mr. Gasket – Valve Cover Gasket (Part No.275)

Valve Cover Gasket

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$42.49
Mr. Gasket Performance Valve Cover Gaskets are high-density cork/rubber blend gaskets that use evenly sized cork particles distributed evenly throughout the rubber binder. The result is a compressible valve cover gasket without leak paths. These gaskets create a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot engine oil. Provides excellent flange sealing and durability. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork/rubber blend gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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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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B & M – Automatic Shifter, Quicksilver 4 Speed (Part No.80683)

Automatic Shifter, Quicksilver 4 Speed

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$439.99
The B&M Quicksilver features a ratcheting action for positive shifts, Chrome Knob, neutral safety switch, NHRA/IHRA approved Reverse Lockout. Fits Most 3 and 4 speeds.

Product Features:
  • Universal Floor Mount Application
  • Base Trimmed For Custom Fit
  • Cable Operated
  • Quick Installation
  • Accurate Shifting
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Hooker Headers – Super Competition Header Gasket (Part No.10820HKR)

Super Competition Header Gasket

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$19.99
Hooker’s precision-matched Super Competition header gaskets provide a sure fit and unmatched exhaust sealing. This OEM quality gasket is constructed of a thick ,.060 inch, high temperature, non-asbestos fiber laminate with a perforated steel core, which provides a superior grip and adhesion. This construction also contributes to exact fit compliance between the cylinder head and header flange, offering excellent sealing properties during extreme temperature and operating conditions.

Product Features:
  • Tear Resistant
  • Precisely Cut To Match Header
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Edelbrock – Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set (Part No.7808)

Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set

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$80.99


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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MSD Ignition – Wire Set; Black Super Conductor; Ford 351C-460 with HEI Cap (Part No.35383)

Wire Set; Black Super Conductor; Ford 351C-460 with HEI Cap

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$181.99
The MSD 8.5mm super conductor wire is the performance wire. Engineered from the inside out, the 8.5 offers everything you have ever wanted in a wire; incredibly low resistance without electronic interference. In a single 12 inch length of super conductor wire there is only 40 – 50 ohms of resistance. That is the lowest resistance of any helically wound wire. To accomplish this, we use a copper alloy conductor due to it’s great voltage carrying capabilities. The low resistance results in less loss in spark energy so more reaches the spark plug. The conductor is wound extremely tight around a special center core. So tight in fact, that there is over 40 feet of conductor wrapped into a single foot of plug wire. This winding procedure, combined with a ferro-magnetic impregnated center core, produces an extremely effective electro magnetic interference (EMI) or choke. This choke, or suppression capability, keeps the EMI inside the wire where it cannot interfere with other electronics on your vehicle. The outer sleeve that surrounds the conductor assembly is just as impressive. A proprietary blend of silicone and synthetic material produce a sleeve that is highly resistant to high heat as well as abrasion and tears. Available in universal kits and bulk lengths.

Product Features:
  • Bolt-on Performance
  • Custom Fit For Make And Model Listed
  • Wires Are Pre-Cut To Exact Specifications
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Energy Suspension – Sway Bar Bushing Set (Part No.4.5101R)

Sway Bar Bushing Set

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$19.99
Energy Suspension performance polyurethane sway bar bushings and end links offer the greatest improvement in performance among all the products Energy offers. They make a vehicle’s sway bar system much more effective like adding a larger, higher performance sway bar! Economy, increased efficiency, and easy installation are just some of the reasons these products are so popular. Made of Hyper-Flex polyurethane that lasts much longer than O.E.M. rubber bushings.

Product Features:
  • Allows Sway Bar System to Work At 100% Efficiency
  • Zerk Type Fittings
  • Allows for Periodic Greasing
  • Lasts Much Longer Than OEM Rubber Bushings
  • Handling Characteristics Improve Dramatically
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Spectre – Water Neck; 351C (Part No.4735)

Water Neck; 351C

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$28.99
Spectre’s Ford water neck fits Ford 351 Cleveland engines. This water neck has been designed around the OEM specifications and has a chrome plated finish for a lasting look that fits great. This water neck includes bolts and sealing O-ring.

Product Features:
  • Fits Ford 351 Cleveland
  • Includes sealing O-ring and bolts
  • Chrome plated
  • Easy to install
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Energy Suspension – Sway Bar End Link Kit (Part No.9.8119G)

Sway Bar End Link Kit

from

$29.99
Made of high durometer, very firm, Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane. They’re economical, increase efficiency and are easy to install. Use Energy Suspension sway bar end links with sway bar bushings to get the maximum performance benefit. Combine both for the same effect as buying a larger sway bar. Together they offer a dramatic improvement in performance and handling.

Product Features:
  • Made from HYPER-Flex Polyurethane
  • Allows Vehicle to Work At Maximum Efficiency
  • Easy to Install
  • Superior Performance and Greater Longevity
  • Lasts Much Longer Than OEM Rubber End Links
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Edelbrock – Classic Series Valve Covers: Small Block Ford 221-351W 62-95, Black Aluminum (Part No.41603)

Classic Series Valve Covers: Small Block Ford 221-351W 62-95, Black Aluminum

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$361.99
The Edelbrock part #41603 Classic Series Valve Covers are designed for Ford 221-351W V8 1962-95 applications and have a Black finish. Edelbrock first made these aluminum valve covers in the late ’50s and they’re still a classic. Made of heavy-gauge sand-cast aluminum, Overall height is measured from base to top at the highest point. Edelbrock classic valve covers can be machined to accept breathers if desired.

Product Features:
  • Small Block Ford 221-351W 62-95
  • Tall
  • Black Aluminum
  • Set Of Two
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Sure-Lock Rocker Arm Nuts (Part No.923G)

Ultra Seal: Sure-Lock Rocker Arm Nuts

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$87.19
Designed to keep the rocker arms positively locked for precise and critical valve train adjustments. Manufactured from quality grade steel, then heat-treated for extra strength and plated with a durable finish. Kits include 16 rocker arm nuts with socket head set screws and one hex key wrench.

Product Features:
  • (16) Rocker Arm Nuts w/ Locks 3/8″-24 Threads
  • Shank O.D. .540″
  • Includes Locks and Hex Wrench
  • High-Quality Grade Steel
  • Heat-Treated For Ex Strength
  • Plated With Durable Gold Tone Finish
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MSD Ignition – Distributor Cap; Ford HEI; Black (Part No.84083)

Distributor Cap; Ford HEI; Black

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$61.19
All the quality and performance you’ve come to expect from MSD is now available in black. Our customers have requested black parts for their builds so we’ve answered with the addition of several black distributor caps and cap and rotor kits. The black parts are built to the exact specifications of the traditional MSD red components. If you’re looking to change up the look under the hood of your street machine, off-road rig or race car; check out the complete line of MSD black components.

Product Features:
  • Injection Molded From DuPont Rynite Material
  • Extreme strength; high dielectric properties
  • Designed with performance in mind
  • High quality; voltage insulating material
  • Brass terminals
  • Black in color
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Mr. Gasket – Thermocap Radiator Cap (Part No.2470R)

Thermocap Radiator Cap

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$48.09
The fastest, easiest way to know exactly when it’s safe to open your radiator cap. ThermoCap, with its built-in calibrated thermometer, indicates the coolant temperature.

Product Features:
  • Indicates coolant temperature
  • Helps prevent coolant injuries
  • Fahrenheit and centigrade readings
  • Color-coded temperature ranges
  • Integrated coolant reclamation valve
  • Improves under-hood appearance
  • Chromed crown with a colored trim ring
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Holley – Keith Dorton Series; VoluMax Race Series Fuel Pump (Part No.12-289-20)

Keith Dorton Series; VoluMax Race Series Fuel Pump

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$217.99
Keith Dorton Series VoluMax race series fuel pump made from heavy duty construction for continuous high RPM operation. Redesigned high flow valves always ensure adequate fuel delivery. Fuel pressure regulator is required. Fuel body casting can be rotated

Product Features:
  • High Output Fuel Flow
  • Flows 170+ gph Free Flow
  • Shutoff Pressure Pre-Set At 8 PSI
  • Fuel Pressure Regulator Is Not Required
  • Heavy Duty Construction For Continuous High rpm Operation
  • Redesigned High Flow Valves Always Ensure Adequate Fuel Delivery
  • Fuel Body Casting Can Be Rotated For Plumbing Situations
  • Inlet And Outlet Tapped For 3/8 in. NPT
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MSD Ignition – Starter; Small Block Ford 289; 302; 351W 5.0L (Part No.5090)

Starter; Small Block Ford 289; 302; 351W 5.0L

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$438.99
Our advanced power system line has grown to include starters. Our new APS starter is designed to crank over the highest compression engines on a hot day in Death Valley. Not that too many race cars are sitting in Death Valley, but it’s good to know that you have the oomph to make it happen. The APS starter features all new components beginning with a three horsepower motor. This power is used to crank over the reduced 4.4:1 gear set to deliver great torque to the engine’s ring gear to get the engine turning. The armature is balanced during assembly and is guided by two ball bearings for smooth engagement and thousands of starts. The downsized housing clears most headers and oil pans, but just in case, we made the billet mount so it can be clocked in different positions to help in tight applications. The assembly is powder coated MSD red and will stay looking good, even though it’s underneath your car.

Product Features:
  • Mount Can Be Clocked To Assist In Mounting
  • Downsized design helps clearance issues w/oil pans and exhaust
  • Ball bearing supported armature and pinion gear
  • 3 Hp Motor Provides Power For High Compression Engines
  • Gear reduction of 4.4:1 improves torque for great cranking
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MSD Ignition – Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit; MSD/Ford V8; 85-95 (Part No.8482)

Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit; MSD/Ford V8; 85-95

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$52.99
The cap and rotor of any ignition system must be considered maintenance items. Just as you change the oil and filter of your car, you should always replace the cap and rotor as a set. To make things easy, we now offer these cap and rotor replacement kits.

Product Features:
  • Rynite Injection Molded Caps And Retainers
  • Designed w/Performance In Mind
  • High Quality; Voltage Insulating Material
  • Stainless Terminals
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Edelbrock – Performer RPM Ford Small Block 302 Intake Manifold (Part No.7121)

Performer RPM Ford Small Block 302 Intake Manifold

from

$341.99


Product Features:
  • Best for the Ultimate in Street High-Performance
  • Designed for 1500 to 6500 RPM Street-Driven Power
  • Dual-Plane High-Rise Intake w/180 deg Firing Order
  • Produces Incredible Top-End Horsepower
  • Retains Good Throttle Response and Acceleration
  • Larger Plenum and Runners Maximizes Other Upgrades
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Energy Suspension – Tie Rod Dust Boot (Part No.9.13101R)

Tie Rod Dust Boot

from

$9.99
Repair torn and worn-out boots of suspension tie rod ends – without having to buy the entire and expensive tie rod. Adds durability surpassing most OEM rubber boots. Exclusive 5 point sealing action. Choose from four sizes and round or octagon styles. Made of Energy’s Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane for added performance and durability.

Product Features:
  • Easy to Install
  • Superior Material
  • Saves Your Tie Rods
  • Lasts Longer
  • Looks Great
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Mr. Gasket – Oil Pan Gasket (Part No.290)

Oil Pan Gasket

from

$35.99
Mr. Gasket Performance Oil Pan Gaskets are manufactured from a high-density cork /rubber blend gasket material to provide excellent sealing and durability. For original equipment replacement and high performance street use.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork /rubber blend gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • For OE replacement and high performance street use
  • Prevents Torque Loss
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Accel – Supercoil (Part No.140001)

Supercoil

from

$105.99
Engineered for faster rise time, longer spark duration and increased performance. Unique design with premium grade wire, special low resistance, high turns ratio windings. Produces higher spark energy with breakerless electronic ignition systems. For points application the supplied 0.85 ohm ballast resistor must be used in conjunction with the vehicle original ballast resistor, if so equipped. Oversized molded case with integral cooling fins and high capacity oil filled construction provide high thermal conductivity ensuring cool operation and long life. Extra tall tan Alkyd tower and integral voltage dam eliminate “flashover” to primary terminals. Comes complete with mounting hardware and 0.85 ohm ballast resistor. Effective up to 6,500 RPM.

Product Features:
  • Oil Filled For Better Cooling
  • Optimized Low Resistance
  • Silicon Magnetic Steel E-Core
  • Higher Energy/Voltage Outputs
  • Quicker Starts
  • Improved Idle Quality
  • Resists Shock And Vibration
  • Resists Corrosion
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Energy Suspension – Transmission Mount (Part No.4.1104R)

Transmission Mount

from

$51.99
A true performance application component for cars, trucks, hot rods, racing/competition, yet popularly used for street vehicles when more horsepower is added. Soft running enough to absorb vibrations for street use yet rugged for racing use. Helps control torque on high performance vehicles. Maintains proper drive shaft angle to help prevent early wear and unexpected power train damage. Replaces the original, short lived and typically too-soft rubber mounts and outdates those hard-running metal transmission mounts. Resistant to under vehicle fluid oils, coolants and road contaminants. Made of Energy’s Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane and heavy duty hardware – for added durability.

Product Features:
  • Unique Safety Interlock Design
  • Impervious to Vehicle Oils and Chemicals
  • Strong Enough Too Handle High Performance
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K&N – Engine Air Filter: Washable Filter, Increase Horsepower & Acceleration (Part No.33-2033)

Engine Air Filter: Washable Filter, Increase Horsepower & Acceleration

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$67.99
K&N performance High-Flow Air Filters are engineered to improve engine performance. Unlike disposable paper filters which must be frequently replaced, K&N Air Filters are washable, reusable, and engineered to last for the life of your vehicle. K&N air filters are backed by our famous 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty, and they provide an environmentally friendly way to reduce landfill waste by avoiding disposable filters. Engineered to fit easily into your factory air box, installation can be completed in a matter of minutes! K&N develops and tests each product on the world┐s toughest race tracks, so we can bring the highest level of performance to your daily driving. Join the millions of customers who have saved money and improved vehicle performance by upgrading to K&N filtration.

Product Features:
  • ENGINEERED POWER: State-of-the-art air filter media is designed to increase horsepower and acceleration as well as improve overall engine performance
  • RUGGED CONSTRUCTION: K&N Air Filters are manufactured with durable, premium materials and state-of-the-art construction methods to last a lifetime
  • 4 LAYERS OF PROTECTION: Multiple layers of premium cotton gauze treated with a specially-designed tacking agent work together to create an intricate mesh of engine filter media that is designed to block and trap harmful contaminants
  • CLEAN ONCE EVERY 5 YEARS: Engine air filter only needs cleaning every 75,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions (based on the average miles driven per year of 15,000 miles)
  • ULTIMATE LONGEVITY: No-hassle lifetime warranty on stock replacement K&N air filters- limitations apply
  • EASY INSTALLATION: K&N Air Filters are pre-treated and ready to drop into your factory air box- they are one of the easiest and most cost-effective vehicle upgrades for quick performance gains
  • ECO-FRIENDLY: Using a washable, reusable engine air filter helps reduce replacement air filter waste- a K&N air filter is designed to last longer than 10 or more disposable filters
  • MADE IN USA: K&N Air Filters are proudly made in the USA for trusted quality & reliability
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Mr. Gasket – Super Intake Manifold Bolts (Part No.6082)

Super Intake Manifold Bolts

from

$43.99
Super Intake Manifold Bolts

Fram – High Perf. Full-Flow Lube Spin-on (Part No.HP1)

High Perf. Full-Flow Lube Spin-on

from

$16.99
FRAM Racing® filters are designed with a heavy-gauge tapping plate and an extra-thick* steel can that is able to withstand the high pressure flexing caused by demanding driving conditions. A spiral-shaped center tube provides protection against collapse, and tough steel end caps add even more durability. A screen-over 22psi filter bypass valve provides additional protection against larger contaminants.** 

Product Features:
  • Proven protection for up to 10,000 miles
  • Engineered for use with synthetic or conventional motor oils
  • Filter media is a blend of fiber and resin that captures 95% of the dirt particles
  • The perfect balance of dirt-trapping efficiency and dirt-holding capacity
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Energy Suspension – Control Arm Bushing Set (Part No.4.3132G)

Control Arm Bushing Set

from

$76.99
For both front and rear of suspensions on cars, trucks and SUVs. Maintains proper alignment under extreme conditions on and off-road and during competition. Improves vehicle handling, cornering and overall control. Full floating for smoother operation. Made of Energy’s Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane to add performance and durability.

Product Features:
  • Maintains Better Alignment While Driving
  • Full Floating and Non Binding
  • Fits Into the Remaining Stock Control Arms
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MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 289/302; Vacuum Advance (Part No.8479)

Distributor; Ford 289/302; Vacuum Advance

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$494.99
The street pro-billet distributors are the perfect choice for powerful engines that see plenty of street time. The street models share the same features as the small diameter models shown above, plus feature a vacuum advance. This canister provides improved economy and an accurate mechanical advance lets you dial-in an advance curve to match your driving needs. A magnetic pick-up produces accurate trigger signals that remain stable throughout the entire rpm range of your engine and is completely maintenance-free.

Product Features:
  • Billet housing 5/8 in. smaller dia. than stock Ford distributors
  • CARB E.O. Approved
  • Easy-to-adjust mech. advance w/supplied springs and stop bushings
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor
  • Creates stable trigger signals throughout the rpm range
  • QPQ coated polished steel shaft; guided by sealed ball bearings
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel
  • QPQ coated for friction reduction
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
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Energy Suspension – Control Arm Bushing Set (Part No.4.3115G)

Control Arm Bushing Set

from

$149.99
For both front and rear of suspensions on cars, trucks and SUVs. Maintains proper alignment under extreme conditions on and off-road and during competition. Improves vehicle handling, cornering and overall control. Full floating for smoother operation. Made of Energy’s Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane to add performance and durability.

Product Features:
  • Maintains Better Alignment While Driving
  • Full Floating and Non Binding
  • Fits Into the Remaining Stock Control Arms
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Mallory – Mallory Kit: Unil Conv: Delco: V8 (Part No.501)

Mallory Kit: Unil Conv: Delco: V8

from

$134.99
Put an end to high maintenance point ignition systems by installing a proven Mallory Unilite ignition conversion kit. Features at a glance, improves performance and fuel efficiency, easy to install with simple hand tools, reduced maintenance and is available for all popular 12-volt negative ground domestic cars and trucks.

Product Features:
  • Easy Installation
  • Improved Fuel Economy
  • Reduced Maintenance
  • Accurate Timing
  • Improved Performance
  • Provides A Simple Conversion
  • No Moving Parts To Wear Out
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1981 Ford Thunderbird Performance and Racing Products

You count on your 1981 Ford Thunderbird to run right. That means taking care of it with regular maintenance, necessary repairs, and the right parts. Advance Auto Parts can help with all of that thanks to our extensive inventory of trusted Performance and Racing Products. With 122 Performance and Racing Products ranging in price from $5.99 to $664.99, you’re sure to find everything you need for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird.

Brands matter. If you want to shop a specific Performance and Racing Products brand, we stock 18 different brands like Accel, Mr. Gasket, and FEL-PRO Performance. 1981 Ford Thunderbird Performance and Racing Products start as low as $5.99!

One of the best ways to find top quality OEM or aftermarket Performance and Racing Products is by asking professionals. Short of that, you can shop with confidence thanks to our 303 extensive product reviews on 1981 Ford Thunderbird Performance and Racing Products. Some of the top-rated Performance and Racing Products products we carry are Water Neck with 3.8 stars and High Perf. Full-Flow Lube Spin-on with 4.0 stars.

Did we mention you can order your Performance and Racing Products from our online catalog and have them shipped right to your garage? Or, if you feel like seeing the parts first-hand, search for your nearest Advance Auto Parts location above and pick up in-store when you’re ready. Browse our full Performance and Racing Products inventory for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird below to get started!

Top-Rated Performance and Racing Products Brands For Your 1981 Ford Thunderbird

Trusted Performance and Racing Products OEM and aftermarket product brands are what Advance Auto Parts specializes in. The brands we work with are sure to keep that 1981 Ford Thunderbird running right for years to come. In our inventory you’ll find brands like Accel, Mr. Gasket, FEL-PRO Performance, and even more.

Popular Proform Performance and Racing Products

You’ll find popular Proform brand products across Performance Distributors. All are waiting to get your 1981 Ford Thunderbird back on the road. Some of the top-rated Proform products in these categories are:
Ford HEI Distributor, Red Cap, For Ford 289-302 V8 Engines
from $228.99
(4)
Ford HEI Distributor, Red Cap, For Ford 289-302 V8 Engines
Performance Distributors

FAQs for 1981 Ford Thunderbird Performance and Racing Products

What are the most purchased Performance and Racing Products for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

Out of 122 Performance and Racing Products for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird, the most popular in our inventory are:
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
from $26.99
(20)
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats
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
Tie Rod Dust Boot
from $9.99
(3)
Tie Rod Dust Boot
Performance Tie Rod End Boots

What are the top-rated 1981 Ford Thunderbird Performance and Racing Products?

Top-rated Performance and Racing Products for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Water Neck
from $19.99
(12)
Water Neck
“FINALLY… first time not having to re-do flimsy paper gaskets. Aside from thicker cork gasket, O ring is only way to go !”
High Perf. Full-Flow Lube Spin-on
from $16.99
(4)
High Perf. Full-Flow Lube Spin-on
“Filter size for my boat. OMC 460. works fine. HP filters have a bypass so that clogs do not cause the engine to starve for oil… important for HP eng”
Unilite Ignition Module
from $85.29
(3)
Unilite Ignition Module
“I like the Unilite product because it is so small and compact compared to the HEI stuff I normally use. If you are restricted on space Its a great pro”