Hi everyone, I've joined your ranks. I just purchased an 85 Trans Am with an LG4 5spd.

This isn't my first T/A, although it is my first 3rd gen. Now I know this is a relatively weak motor, which is fine, I'm not looking for a street monster. Please refrain from the "just swap a 350 in it, the 305 isn't worth it" comments. That's not an option. I'd like to squeeze more power out of it, aiming to get the car to the 250 crank horsepower range or so. I think that's pretty reasonable and doesn't really warrant an engine swap. I'd like some advice on which parts to get and stay nice and Califonia legal. Right now here are my candidates.

Heads: https://www.trickflow.com/parts/tfs-30310001

EFI conversion (The only CA legal one there is as far as I know): http://pitstopusa.com/i-23906706-msd...pg-xoChAHw_wcB

Intake manifold (think I'll need an adapter for the EFI kit): http://www.jegs.com/i/Edelbrock/350/3701/10002/-1

First question, does anyone see a problem with this setup?

Second question, exhaust. I've read a lot of things about exhaust on these third gens with the 5.0. I have found many 305 headers, but many people say to get headers for a 350 or maybe an HO 305 instead. Basically, I want to know what is the best exhaust set up I can have and stay legal? Can I have true dual exhaust?

Third question: If I were to get a dual snorkel set up from an HO 305, does that have all the fittings I need for smog compliance (heat stack from header to intake, crank case ventilation etc...)

Last question: Given the above parts, can anyone recommend a camshaft to use?

Thanks so much in advance!

 

You're doing good work w/ your research.

It's shaky ground to go for the Atomic (the EO is for 87-older) and expect approval for dual cats / dual-cat compatible headers (they began 1989 in the F-body.)

I've had the 86-down intake, the 87-88 L69/LG4 intake, the 3701, the ZZ4, and the 3706. The 3701 (or a ZZ4 intake for that matter) is not a noticeable improvement for a 305. Save your money. On the other hand, if yours is corroded at the coolant system and you want a dual pattern Q-jet/Holley carb pattern to avoid the adapter, then go for it.

The L69 dual snorkel does have functional flapper door on both snorkels, a heat riser, and CCV.

 

Awesome, thank you. More questions to come I'm sure!