Okay, with the problems I keep running into with my current '84 L69..I've decided to swap it into a strong bodied non-rusted roller chassis. (the current one has rust, and I keep finding more). The 305 in there now sounds strong..and I'm wanting to add some power while I have the motor out. It's currently got a 600cfm Edel carb, 2701 Edel intake, and HEI. I'm wanting to swap in a new cam and headers for sure. I'm also considering new heads or some light head work? Any opinions on that?? I'm looking at the rebuild kits offered on Summit, with new pistons, rods etc..to beef it up..where's a good place to start here???

 

Cam upgrade, headers and full exhaust, and some light head work. Replace the Edelbrock carb with a stock q-jet.

Don't touch the shortblock (i.e., pistons, rods, rings, bearings, crank). If you do that, forget the 305 - go find a 350 shortblock to rebuild.

 

Thank you. I did some more research after posting, and I'm having trouble deciding on whether I trust the 305 or not. 1 pushrod was loose when I had the intake off, it has/had an oil leak(s), and has a bad freeze plug. It sounds decent when running, and does not smoke. However, I'm thinking the 350 may be the best way to go...I'm just worried about the strength of the T5..

 

None of those things condemn the 305.

But, the 350 sure is sweet. The T5 can survive as long as you don't do high-RPM clutch dumps or speed shifts.

I didn't see the T5 part before. Since that's what you have, a mechanical secondary Holley would be a better carb choice than the Performer or q-jet.