J Par simmer down big un!! We are getting off the topic some, BUT as usual I will try to get the last word! ha...I have never been a at the track drag racer, nor street racer, maybe a back road. Part of my point is how so many drag racers spend SOooo much $$$$ and that is OK with me. Just saying this thread here is about all the inexpensive small things that can be done to a CHEAP engine to go faster and make more smiles. I equate $ and time spent as to what I have in the end and IF I get pleasure out of it.
Sure it was way easier back in the 70's, 80's to go to the local boneyard and get a good running engine complete for cheap. CHEAP. EASY! Try finding a yard with anything older than 2000!!
BUT you are right, put in some decent gears and be pretty quick (less you got stock friggin slant!)