I just bought a 1985 Camaro Berlinetta (all stock 4bbl 305) and i was woundering if there are any cheap mods i can do to get alittle more power out of it? ignition timing, pullies, anything cheap (for now at least)... and maybe some rough idea's of the results I could expect from any of these cheap power adders... thanks

 

I think it's a safe bet that you can advance your initial timing a handful of degrees without any trouble, more if you want to run premium fuel.

A cheap ignition recurve by changing mechanical advance springs & weights is likely worth some power too.

You can remove the air dam inside the air filter housing at the inside end of the snorkel, that will help. Removing the thermAC valve inside the snorkel will free up some airflow but can affect cold engine operation and carb icing, so that depends a lot on your climate and how much driveability you are willing to give up for a few horsepower.

A few hours under the hood making sure that everything is healthy (general state of tune) is cheap and effective (vacuum leaks, spark plug condition etc...)

I won't make any claims about horsepower gains, but there is cheap power to be had, be prepared to tinker with the ignition timing a fair bit and get hold of a timing light or you're just stabbing in the dark.

 

Do a complete tune up on it.

When you're ready to spend a few bucks, begin with full exhaust, headers and cat-back.

 

ok thanks guys.... yes i think a tune up is well needed on this thing.... problem is, im not very good with carbs.... i know its only running on 2bbls right now, the other 2 aren't kicking in. and it bogs down when i floor it from a stop or a low speeds, but only when its warmed up... anyone know what im looking at price wise if i take it to a shop to have the carb fully tuned? i live in the seattle/tacoma are in Wa.

 

i agree, thats the best thing you should do with any car you get..

 

Tune up first, change oil, then change to a Flowmaster or some good exhaust of this nature and dump the snorkel air cleaner and go with open air K & N filter. These will get you started.