389 i need more horse"

[1960PontiacCatalin]

what would give me more horse power with my 389 2 barrel carb i know switching out intakes an puting a 4 barrel on will but i need some cheap ways that know one really thinks abt !! and what trans would my 389 have on it ? its in my 1960 pontiac catalina it has 18000 orig miles motor has never been stoped so its all stock thanks for your time everyone any info on this subject or this car will be extremely helpful !!

[MagicRat]

Befoore modding the engine, you need to tune it, and make sure it is in peak condition.

Set the ignition timing. Check the ignition advance mechanism to make sure it si working properly. Check the condition of the points, plugs, wires, cap and rotor. Replace anything that is suspect.

Put a vacuum gauge on the engine. Check the vacuum strength. Look for odd movement of the vacuum indicator gauge that will indicate a bad valve etc.

Is your carb set up right? Choke pull-off working? Mixture screws ok? Float level ok? Accelerator pump ok? Consider a carb rebuild if something is wrong.

It the exhaust plugged, bent or has restricted flow? Is your air filter element clean?

Consider decarbonizing the combustion chambers. There are some products out there that will help you do this, albeit with mixed results.

Pop off the valve covers and look at the valve gear. Spin the engine by hand and make sure the valves are all going up and down the proper amount.

All this work will require some tuning tools, such as a timing light, vacuum gauge, dwell tach, feeler gauge etc, some specifications and a basic service manual or instructions if you are not familiar with the processes involved. But you will have a better-running engine, more power and better economy.

As for cheap mods..... you could try flipping the air cleaner upside down or make an undersized lid, for more free airflow.