I know you cant expect much from a 305 but it's what i'm sticking with for now until summer time. I wanna know if theres any tips or tricks to beefing up these little engines. What performance parts really help it out? I dont plan on doing too much like tearing open the motor or adding nitrous (yet). but i'd like to know what mods would help and where should it set me in 1/4 mile times? better yet what could i look forward to beating on the streets. Its still tune port also and i do plan on keeping it that way. Just to keep away from carb. problems.

 

A good exhaust is a pretty much foolproof way to gain from 0.2 to 0.5 seconds in quarter mile.
Some good stainless 1.75" shorty headers with Y-pipe, and a 3" cat-back system should do it.

 

If your rear end is stock its a pretty low (numerically) ratio, which will kill any 1/4 mile times, switch to a 3.23 or 3.42 and it will make a big difference. Other than that, anything you can do to make any other SBC perfrom you can do to a 305.

 

Intake runners, ported plenum, aftermarket lower intake, Cam, Headers, Cat-back exhaust...your at around 215 horse at the wheels depending on the parts you pick.

 

My top ten improvements

1.Headers and improved exhaust
2.Camshaft
3.Ported plenum, FMR 19 lbs/hr fuel injectors and Holley adjustable fuel pressure regulator
4.Check fuel induction system, especially the throttle body, for vacuum leaks
5.K&N air filter
6.Tune up with spark plugs and oil change
7.Replace MAF, TPS, IAC, O2, EGR, ICM and other sensors as needed or if there is any question about their condition
8.Consider a MSD or other manufacturer distributor, coil and wires
9.Rear end gears
10.Cooling system up grade with 160 degree thermostat, Edelbrock of other manufacturer water pump and new radiator

 

1. Headers, and a good flowing exhaust system are a MUST.
2. A good intake as far as the filter and tubing along with just removing (grinding out) the little wall behind the front(inside) of ur plenum helps.
3. Underdrive pullies
4. Aluminum 1LE driveshaft
5. Adjustable fuel pressure regulator


As for tips and tricks... Plenty!!!
Throttle body coolant bypass. So long as you dont live in a really cold environment. This helps to keep hot coolant from circulating through the throttle body and heating up the air that enters. All its there for is to heat your throttle body in the winter 2 keep it from freezing shut.
Intake air temp sensor relocation. The sensor is in the bottom of your plenum toward the back(firewall side). Replacing this in your intake tubing gives a more accurate air temp reading allowing for better power and economy, by getting it out of the heatsoaked plenum.
There are plenty of other small things you could do, just do a simple search and you will find all you need 2 know.