cheap to me is less than 400$ in the whole project. so yeah prolly wont be doing the heads. the 4 bbl carb and intake sound like my best option at this point. I think I may even have a 4bbl holley laying around somewhere
Your close to screwed, the abpove suggestion is a good one. The headers from Summit or Jegs @ something like $99 and finish it up with a pair of 4ft. straight pipe @ 2-1/4 inch and a pair of summit or Thrush turbo mufflers. There very inexpensive. You'll probably need 8 clamps and 2 hangers. System ends in front of the rear axle. Exhaust gaskets should be Mr. Gasket Ultra seals. Very good stuff.
The above mentioned used intake and carb might be found here or at a swap meet. Carter carbs are easiest to rebuild.
On a gear change, you'll spend about $400 on parts nevermind the installation of them.
