I have been welding for years.
If you brought this to me I would highly recommend that you not have it done.
First off in order to weld this correctly I need to heat it first, then weld it and then you need to have it machined due to weld warpage.
Here is the real kicker. Let’s say it...
Spray carb cleaner around possible vacuum leak areas like carb and intake. If you notice a change in RPM then look closer for the leak.
Also, have you confirmed your timing and advance?
Good luck.
This would be a great time to cut your existing bumpers and brackets down to have them fit closer to the body.
Then I highly suggest having Tri City do the plating.