Best Top 10 Bolt Ons For a 318

This is what I did to my '66 poly in the 80's, when my budget was basically $0-

1- "recurve" the mechanical advance, so it comes in earlier. You can stretch the springs yourself or buy weaker ones- $0

2- set timing for max advance before "ping"- $0

3- gap plugs and ignition system properly- $0 (and stay on it)

4- low restriction exhaust. I used a junkyard "straight through" but not "glass pack" muffler- $5 but would have put on duals if I could have afforded it. Make sure "butterfly" valve is not stuck (wire open if necessary)

5- low restriction air filter. This can be as simple as turning the lid upside down- $0

6- remove the ball and enlarge the hole in the trans valve body. This is 90% of a "shift kit" for $0

7- if you have air shocks- separate the lines and run more pressure in the passenger's side. This compensates for the crown in the road and for most power going to the right wheel. If done correctly wheel spin will change from one side to the other under WOT and can approach "limited slip" performance. $10

8- remove rear leaf spring clamp and move to front. Super poor man's "almost" traction bar. $0

9- clutch fan (or flex if you must) and shroud, if you don't have one already- $25-ish

10- adjust and clean carb regularly, perhaps install glass filter (great easy troubleshooting aid)- $15