Have you looked into the performer RPM instead of the performer? The performer has smaller ports than the stock 360 manifold. Also after owning the edelbrock 1406. I would look into a different carb. I personally like the 750 summit vac secondary carb. It is so far my favorite street carb that I have used. I think now would be the time to put a cam in it, the factory cam is not that great. I think this with a set of comp 901 springs would be awesome
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HRS-CL710991-08/ for a driver. My favorite gear is 3.91s but if its driven on the freeway much I would look at 3.23 or 3.55.