I would look at the fuel lines, fuel pump and pick up, if they are not 3/8 now convert them both to that size or larger and get a really good fuel pump Biuld the fuel system bigger than you need for 12.s, you will probally want to go faster in the future Traction is a very big deal in getting the car to accelerate rapidly, buy a good set of tires and wheels(both ) for use at the track if you can afford that, if not count on the good tires wearing out fast on the street As far as the four speed and the rear gear ratio I would leave it the way it is now and plan on leaving it in third gear at the track, don't shift it into O.D. unless you absolutetly have to Put the tallest and widest rear wheels and tires on the car you can for the track The bad thing about stick shift cars is starting line traction, the good thing about them is there is no loss of power due to converter slippage What size is that carb ? If you don't know what size it what is the "list" number stamped on the front drivers side of the choke horn? BTW, a waring from a old racer, speed is addicting, can you stand the ride Welcome to the jungle