I live in Perth Western Australia AKA "Down under" and was wondering if I could get a little info on the ol' Y block.

 Reason being I just purchsed a very nice '56 Fairlane Town Sedan from SGV California thanks to a mate living there, it has 93000 miles genuine, from the second owner. Before it leaves on its long journey I would like to do as much possible to it as there is no point once its here as parts will be hard to find and expensive. And if I can get the parts I wont be paying tax on them entering. Suggestions on where to look for parts [and in general] that aren't expensive online etc would be a great help.

Acording to the VIN no. its a 292 4bbl. [dispite been told it was a 312 mmm?] My friend said it starts first time every time, drives very well, doesn't appear to be leaking much of anything. The only thing that was concerning over the whole car was the compression seemed to be low , all around the 100 mark, I think it would be more like 150. I am having my doubts if the mechanic over there did it correctly....?

Now if you guys can help me out with any suggestions of things to look for, now this goes for the whole car as well. Its going to be a very mild custom. What are "simple" things that I can do to make it go , run, drive, stop etc better?

Have any of you used the Petronix 2 ign system? I thought this was a far cheaper option than a whole new dizzy.

Headers? exhaust? ... I take it that it should be manditory to fit a set of Smithys glass packs to it!

Intake?

 What makes them go well?

As far as the car goes , Brakes?

I did find that Larrys sold sway bars for the '56, I would think having these front and rear would be a big improvement. can I find them elsewhere?

Anyway thats a starter, any help much appreciated.



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