got told NOT to get a converter.......

I agree with Fastbackcuda, if it's a good converter it won't feel like oatmeal.
Sounds like that mopar guy you work with may have some outdated information, or he doesn't want ya to have a faster car than him :wink: :lol: .
As for the headers, Pro Parts also makes Big block A body headers, but requires a few header pipes holes cut in your inner fenderwells.
So get some headers, you'll notice it all right, in the horsepower department! :wink: