[chiphead]

I ran the XE256 with a stock converter and 3.23 gears. 350 with 17 heads, performer, Q-jet. Cast piston, stock rod, stock oiling system. Pulled hard to 5200. Had a noticable lope. Ran low 14s in the quarter. Would run right with newer GT mustangs.

XE262 would be about right for a 350 with 9 compression, 3.55s, and a mild converter. The cool thing about the XE256 (and I think the XE262) is you can use the stock rockers, studs, and nuts. Just use the COMP valvesprings, keepers and retainers, and check installed height of the springs.

It would have a good choppy sound for sure. I wouldn't recommend the XE262 for less than 8.5:1 compression. Have the block zero decked to prevent detonation with the timing curve you'll need. My engine had poor deck height, and I had issues from that. The XE cams build cylinder pressure, so they work well with low to moderate compression engines. You might could get away with cast pistons and stock rods in a 350, just have it balanced. I tried to blow up my stock-rod 350, drove it around at 5800 in 2nd gear. I ran it hot, I ran it with too much timing, poor fuel, etc. It kept coming back for more. I finally pulled & stored it when the oil pressure got low. The P350 is a tough SOB.