Intro + Modification Questions

[xlr8_87]

Hi everyone,

Thought I'd introduce myself and ask a few questions in the same thread.

I'm Rob from Melbourne, Australia and in about a month will finally be able to buy myself a weekender. I'm looking at 70's Firebirds and have pretty much settled on a late 70's with the 400 engine.

I've never been able to leave any car I've owned stock, so I think I'd like to do some tasteful performance modifications once I get it. I know only very basic things about modifying cars, but even less about carby engines so any help - no matter how basic it sounds would be much appreciated!

I guess the starting point is budget, which I'll allow approx $5k for - please note I'm in Australia so generally everything is more expensive here! I'll only be driving it on weekends, couldn't care less about how much fuel it uses and would like to get a 'nice' drive out of it with a bit of grunt when I hit the gas. I won't be fitting anything myself, so install cost would have to be taken into account.

Every other car I've had I've always started with exhaust and intake, any particular brands or things to look at here?

What else is a good starting point? Is it worthwhile upgrading the carby and ignition system or is money better spent on a cam?

Any particular brands or even more specifically items that people would recommend would be great!

Thanks.

 

[EaOutlaw]

Hi and welcome.

To start giving you performance tips we will need to know more about the vehicle you end up with.

The best thing you can do in my opinion is start off with the right year and right equipped car to start with.

Is the 5K your budget for the upgrades or the car and upgrades?

 

[melsg5]

As EaOutLaw pointed out we would be glad to help but without the specifics of what you have cant do too much. Would be pointless to tell you to install an 068 grind cam if the car already has it.

 

[xlr8_87]

Thanks guys.

The $5k is just for modifications, the cars themselves cost around $30k down here for one in good condition.

Are both the manual and auto gearboxes strong or is one a better option than the other? I'd prefer a manual but choices are very limited down here so unless there's a good argument for not getting an auto I'll get whatever is available.

______________________________

 

[melsg5]

It is going to depend on how the individual car was maintained and what condition it is in. The automatic could suffer from burnt fluid and internal damage and the manual could have a bad clutch and worn syncro's. Either you or a friend familiar with cars has to very carefully look over whatever car you find. The 70's generation would have probably either a Muncie 4 speed or a Turbo Hydramatic M40 both strong transmissions.

 

[xlr8_87]

Thanks! I'll be getting the checked out by a mechanic prior to buying for peace of mind.
I'll post back when I've purchased one! Meanwhile I'll lurk and try and read up as much as I can!

 

[Zimgxp]

Both Transmissions are fine at stock hp levels.