Looking for performance suggestions
 

Hey All,

I just picked up a 1969 Chevy Custom 3/4 ton with a 350, 4 barrel carb., 4 speed manual transmition. This is a stock truck with the exception of a camper shell to be tossed. I need some advice on any recommendations on performance up grades.

It also has a wood bed in very good condition (because of the camper shell) but will need protection. Any recommendations on what products to use on the wood (Paint, stain, etc.)?

Thanks
John

Well there are tons and tons of performance parts for that 350, get some good heads, a nice intake and a good carb and u should be happy, depending on what you want.

Regarding keeping that wood bed protected, if you're gonna haul stuff not too much you can do other than be careful and put down blankets i guess. Regarding protection from elements (if you take cover off) then i think yer kinda SOL.
You can re-coat the thing couple times a year with a good spar varnish or you could try clear coating like Calisurfer did, he said it was a bit more work but has lasted like nothing else.

Right now I'm looking mostly for any bolt on performance items. Carb, air cleaner, exhaust system, handling, braking, etc.

The best performance upgrade.....Cubic Dollars! :D

you can oil the boards twice a year and maybe varnish them too. or even some thompsons deck varnish would probly be ideal

Ok..get rid of the pollution crap...Buy headers, edelbrock airgap intake..edelbrock 1406 carb..dual exhaust...HEi distributor.. these are all fairly easy bolt ons(except the duals)..the next thing I would do is either (1) go with a automatic..th350 or (2) get a car 4 speed(muncie, T-10)..the automatic is an easy swap, and really makes driving a pleasure...with all of that said, be prepared to build another engine...because once you get a taste of the power you have after the mods, you'll want more..lol