Well I think it's about time for a rebuild on my '86 dually's 454. I only plan on removing all the smog equipment and boring it .40 over, for a little bit cleaner look and a little bit more power. I want to be able to run 87 octane in it and I need to know what is a safe compression ratio. The engine will still have the stock iron heads, the truck is a crew cab auto., and it will have to be rolling the weight of 24's. Should I go 9.0:1 or would it be safer to go 8.5:1 in case I decide to sometimes pull another truck on a trailer? I just want to make sure it doesn't ping with 87 octane.

9 to 1 will be fine. get the timing advance right, put a little cam in it, get headers and a good exaust system, and haul ass!!!! i think the higher compression would be a little better for towing, more get up and go too!!!! later, brian