Need help with my 1982 F-100, 255 v8

[jseefcoot]

Hey everybody -- I'm looking for advice regarding my classic F-100. It's a 1982 model, completely stock, with a C4 tranny and a 4.2L v8(255ci). Anyone who remembers this engine knows it's a dog. I plan on upgrading it anyway, just because I don't really need a speed demon vehicle -- I'd be happy if it were just a little sportier.

I know that the 255 was considered a 'de-bored' 302. It has the same 3" stroke, but only a 3.68" bore. They used different cylinder-to-head porting in an effort to gain better emissions and low-end torque. I am pretty sure that no one ever made an intake manifold for this motor, and manifolds from 302's aren't compatible. So what about the heads? Are they different too? If I got better heads on the motor, then I could also upgrade the intake manifold/carb. I know that doing this will basically be like building a 302 with a smaller bore, but like I said, I don't want a monster, just a little more 'Ooomph'. Plus, gas is waaaaaay too expensive for massive displacement options. So I want to see what, if anything, I can do to the motor I have. Besides, it would be kinda cool to have the only 'built' 255 v8 around!

Here's the plan:
1. New flex fan
2. Air Breather/K&N Filter
3. Remove smog pump
4. Headers
5. Dual Exhaust
6. Heads and Intake?
7. New Tranny

Plus, if anyone knows the main differences between the c4 and c5 trannies, please let me know.

Thanks everyone!

James