What are your cam specs? Why did you replace original 9" axle with an 8"?

Sorry. I saw 57 manifold and thought 57 car. I know 9" not available until 57.

Sweet setup. 54 is much lighter than a 57 so it should run great. I'd try setting the initial timing back a bit. Might also have the distributor curve checked by someone with a distributor machine who knows what he is doing. The springs may do the trick but I like to know exactly whats going on with the advance curve. Always love the T Bird valve covers. 

Looks really nice, should be a great combination. I ran the traction masters on the bird for years. Those guys knew their stuff.

Any chance of get some pic of the whole car? Finished or not.

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

Miker, did you use a rear sway bar with the Traction Masters?

Yes, one of the tbird supplier ones. I don't remember which, but one of the major ones (Hills, Concours, Larry's ?)

They were real "Traction Masters" from the 60's. I called them up and they still had the drawings, took a bit to get them. Welded frame brackets. Worked good with the sway bar. The car now has a triangulated 4 bar with coils overs. Wouldn't do that again, little improvement for a lot of money. One more of those things where I learned more and it cost less than going to college.

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

Nice!!  I am curious as to how you like the double pumper carburetor?  I have always run vacuum secondary carbs. Any dead spots or response issues?

Thanks for the interest. Real Traction Masters, they are still supplying them. I think $150.  No sway bar yet.