how much can my 289 crank handle?

[68RustBucket]

simply put, how much hp and/or torque can a stock 289 crankshaft deal with before it becomes risky?

 

[65ShelbyClone]

I would say probably at least as much as a 302, which is enough to split the block(~500+rwhp). I would get more concerned as the rpm goes up, though.

 

[brianj5600]

Ive never heard of anyone breaking one. I would not worry about it unless you are endurance racing or seriosly driving a blower off the snout. The rotating assembly is not very heavy and the stroke is short.

 

[HistoricMustang]

I have never seen a cast crank break on a 289/302 carbed engine.

For what it is worth mine is cast.

HistoricMustang
www.historicmustang.com

 

[D.Hearne]

Only small block cranks I've seen break were two early 80's 50/oz/in units, both in stock 5.0 engines. One was in a Crown Vic, the other in an F150 pickup. 289 cranks should handle 7000 rpms, or better if properly prep'd. The Hi-po crank was designed for 7500+.

 

[rbohm]

when the first engine in my mustang broke, it was due to a spun main bearing which threw two rods. the crank was unfazed. i have not heard of a 289 crank break, and very few 302/5.0 cranks breaking. as far as i know the only factory crank tougher than the 289 crank is the 351c crank(also cast, and i have never heard of one of those cranks breaking despite being turned 10k rpm in pro stock racing).

 

[silverbluebp]

Mine withstands sustained runs at 7,000 and the engine showed 350hp on the dyno. Sure hope it lasts for a long, long time

 

[ashford]

when the first engine in my mustang broke, it was due to a spun main bearing which threw two rods. the crank was unfazed. i have not heard of a 289 crank break, and very few 302/5.0 cranks breaking. as far as i know the only factory crank tougher than the 289 crank is the 351c crank(also cast, and i have never heard of one of those cranks breaking despite being turned 10k rpm in pro stock racing).

i agree. i did this to a cleveland(see pic) the machinist polished the crank it and gave it back to me, said it was fine. this was on an engine i got out of a junk yard on the test run the throttle return spring came off

 

[Dark Knight]

The only ones I've seen break are usually running some type of supercharger.
To much tension on the snout, the usually break flush with the front main cap..

http://clickclickracing.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1597
scroll down...

 

[86bluecobra]

why don't you find the limit and tell us. your going to have to put some serious power into the 289 to do it.

 

[D.Hearne]

Just ask 1320Stang, he'll give you an idea on what a 289 is capable of.