Topic: pulling engine

[Likemyta]

I'm going to have my 400 pulled from my 79 TA. Reason for pulling it, is to get it detailed and make the motor compartment look really nice. My question is, should I think about changing the cam while the motor is out to get a bit more power out of the 400? The motor has 67,800 original miles on it and I don't want to take anything away from the originality of the car. Thanks..

[Stringer]

Depends. Do you live in an area that requires emissions testing? Changing the cam profile may make passing such test difficult or impossible. Some areas have exemption waivers - check your local DMV. 

Aside from that, it is a cost benefit analysis....
- unmolested original vs modified
- desire vs need
- cost vs power added
- done yourself (time) vs pay a shop (money).

Something to consider...a true dual exhaust (if it doesn't have one) could increase power as much as 10-12% depending upon set up. It could be the best bang for your buck $800-1200. It would also be a period correct modification if you are concerned about originality.