1972 Catalina Convertible....modifying

[NoParalax1000]

Picked it up a couple years ago with the 400, 2bbl carb 3 speed automatic. Spent some money trying to restore it to original. Has original engine with about 99K miles on it. Painted engine. I have lost interest in showing it as it is not a garage kept and will never complete against these full restos. For me, it is becoming my daily driver. Want to modify it a bit to make it more of a reliable luxury driver. It was the loaded power package model. Was looking to replace the top at about $3,500 next but I still have little issues here and there with stalling. Rather than doing Band-Aids here and there I am considering a modification. I already done the below. Any recommendations of other things to consider?

1. American Racing Mag Wheels-255/70R15 15x8, replacing the stock 7"
2. A/C switched from R12 to R134 refrigerant.
3. Custom True Dual Exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers
4. 4bbl carburetor conversion (Aluminum underneath)
5. Electronic Ignition

 

[melsg5]

I would recommend getting rid of that fire hazard plastic gas filter and rubber lines. Use steel braided hose and a metal filter.
You mention electronic ignition but make no mention if you have done anything with the distributor mechanical advance curve.
Get a Mr. Gasket 928G spring kit assuming you do not have HEI.
Replace the factory nylon advance stop bushing with the metal bushing in the kit. Install one silver and one black advance spring.
Set total mechanical advance to 36 degrees BTDC.
Nice looking car.

 

[cammerjeff]

I agree on the Fuel Filter! But a big bang for the buck upgrade on 1970's & 80"s cars is the rear axle ratio. Your 72 might still have decent gears, but alot of them had 2.72 or higher ratio's even a switch to something like 3.08 or 3.23 rear gears can make a big difference in off the line acceleration.

The downside is trying to find better gears for the 8 7/8" rear axle the big Pontiac cars used. Good axle, but no aftermarket parts support.