Engine Upgrade

I'm not an engine builder but make sure the engine it self is in A1 shape. I mean bearings, clearances, valves or the guts of it. Then you have to figure do you want it to look stock or not and it's originality. Then you probably know that the more money you spend doesn't co-incide with increased power. For example I am putting the W-manifolds on an engine because I like the stock look and I don't want to mess with leaks or even the chances of them But they are better than the stock ones. So it's give and take. I would say a strong ignition system, free flowing exhaust system. The other thing is go to an Olds convention. There are all kinds of people there that will help you and esp the drag racers. I went to the one in Milwaukee, WI a couple of years ago. I talked so many people. The one conversation that sticks in my mind was an older fellow (older than me and I' 64). I told him what I had going on. He made some wise comments one of which basically said this, so I will paraphrase: "Well, you know one thing I've learned is that I am amused at these guys building these big motors and they always want to go faster. They build a big motor. Then they can't get traction. Then they add bigger tires, posi-traction, traction bars, slicks and everything else. But, when you take out some of the "give" things begin to come apart." So true.