Looking for some basic mods?
Right now I am enjoying the car and I just want a little bit more out of the car for now. I figured in a year or two. Right now the brakes are in good shape and everything but, i do need a new exhaust and would like a bit more sound from the car (lol). So would like to add headers and exhaust.
Then a higher flowing muffler like a Dynomax 'Turbo' will get you the sound and perhaps a bit of engine performance that you want. Duals would be a plus and not that hard for a shop to bend up. Year One, TTI and others have the factory style exhaust hanger bracket for the second side if you go dual. A really good single exit like the '67 273 Hi-Po would be fine for mostly street use. Headers are a much bigger project to install. I wouldn't bother on a two barrel unless its something you really want to do.
For a little more get up and go around town, I agree that the first thing to do is work the existing system. I disagree on tossing the distributor spring. Even if you don't use it now, it will be usefull if you ever go to an electronic ignition. Start with documenting your existing curve. Now you have a baseline and you can go back to it when things dont work as planned. Then experimenting with a bit more advance, quickening the first part of the curve with a lighter spring, and then the whole curve. [
edit adjusting the spring perches can also be used to quicken the curve] This is where hot rod 'tuning' is very different than a 'tune up'. Points ignition, so check the gap and dwell and condition of the points. You'll need a tachometer, dwell meter, timing light and while a vacuum gage isn't required, its very helpful.
If you're happy with the brakes, good. Keep them adjusted. A front anti-sway bar is a really good bang for the buck in terms of handling. A factory bar is fine, but attaching it to the lower control arms is a project. A more bolt-in solution is available from places like Firm Feel, but may only work with thier bars, which are bigger than factory.
Good reading beyond the factory service manual on suspension, engines, etc is the Chrysler master tech pamphlets.
http://www.imperialclub.org/Repair/Lit/Master/index.htm
If you are going to the drag strip the engine is going to be going well over 3000 rpm at WOT. Then a 4 bbl and intake will help power.
