4.10s are definitely not the end-all for gears. I think the best way to pick a gear is to
(1) Get your car dynoed and tuned
(2) Talk with the tuner about optimum shift points based on the dyno curve
(3) Go to the track and experiment with launch/shift rpms. Also, note at what rpm you finish the 1/4
(4) Based on this information -- go to a speed shop and talk with a tech guy and you both decide which gear is the best for your car.
I think 302s do well with a 4.10 gear because it helps them get out of the hole quicker. With a 351W, you have more bottom end and midrange torque -- I think such a steep gear as a 4.10 is perhaps not as neccesary.
Don't worry about things as they are now, though. From looking at your combo, it seems to me like you have a very mild 351W. A gear swap isn't going to make a HUGE difference at this power level.
I want to let you know that I have a friend with a 351W and this guy runs low 10s -- all motor. I tell you this because I want you to know the potential of the engine you have in your coupe. Of course, his car is carburated, runs 118 octane fuel, has a monster cam, etc. etc. He does drive it to work and whatnot but I wouldn't want to drive it every day.
Save up some $$ though and go through the motor and do it right. Even with EFI, there's no reason not to run 118-125mph on motor with a semi-hot street/strip 351W using off the shelf parts.
Good Luck!!
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Jeff Kane
1990 LX Mustang Coupe
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