[scicala]

If you want to switch to a more modern Holley or other 4 barrel carb, you will need an adapter (still available) because of the different bolt pattern and also will need to change the distributor to a 1957 or later one because the carb vacuum signals are drastically different to the distributor. '56 was the last year of the "Loadomatic" ignition system that was vacuum only.

As far as a carburetor an Edelbrock 500 CFM is a good choice and more easily tune-able than the Holley. Probably cheaper too. It's also been used and liked by a few Ford Barner's

Sal