I originally posted about upgrades for a 430-4. In my first post I should have indicated that I'm a neophyte. I know basics about how an engine works and its components and did some minor repairs as a kid. I did rebuild a tractor gas engine, so I have some hands on experience. But I have no idea of what a harmonic balancer is? I ended up purchasing a '64 Wildcat with a 401 nailhead. The frame, body and interior were all in great to excellent condition. The motor is the weak link. It's a high mileage engine with 120,000 miles. I plan to donate this vehicle for a charity auction next year, so I'm not inclined to do a rebuild, but I do want to increase its "respectability" to attract more people to purchase raffle tickets. So I am trying to do this on the cheap. In one post, it was suggested to convert from a single exhaust to a dual. That's an easy do; or at least I think it is. The same with a tune up. I'm not sure if a HEI conversion would still be appropriate for a 401? The previous owner did put a Holly 4 barrel on it. Hypothetically, if I start with the basic 325 hp 401 naihead, with a conversion to dual exhausts, and the Holly carb., have I substantially increased performance or am I really looking at a rebuild with new heads, intake manifold, cam, etc? Are there other "cheap" changes that I can make? With the dual exhaust on a 401 what specs are the best? I guess that I'm still really asking the same questions as I did in my 430-4 post but don't know if all the same things apply to the 401 nailhead. As I said, I'm a neophyte.
Do you know IF it runs??? Myself IF in fact it does run I wouldn't waste my time & $$$$. Get it to run somewwhat quietly & somewhat smoothly. Clean & gap plugs or replace. Install new points & condenser. Replace ignition wires IF nec. Cap & rotor. Don't just replace for the heck of it. Wash, vacuum & IF nec. clean the upholstery & the interior & engine compartment. Use clenser on the paint & rinse well to get rid of any white residue. MAYBE buff & wax. Do these things to help represent the best it can be in the condition it's in. DON'T start going overboard. Keep it somewhat simple. You MAY be very surprised by the results especialy if the interior & other components are as nice as you mention. Tom T.
