I have an 82' FB with the 12A it came with. It runs, a little dirty but no rust or major dents. I'm looking to put more power into my 12A, I've seen discussions but almost all of them say to put a 13B in it instead. As stupid as people may call me for it, I'm not looking to do that. I don't want ridiculous amounts of power, just hoping to get a little more out of my 12A. I'm super new to this so all help/info is greatly appreciated. Not sure if it helps but it is a GSL model.

 

The first thing to do to get more power is get a less restrictive exhaust. Racing Beat long primary has been the go-to exhaust for a long time. You will read that lately quality has decreased. Their header is the best. After that, it's really your choice. It's probably about $1200 or so for their entire setup but the best bang and easiest HP gain.

If your state requires any type of exhaust inspection, this could be difficult.

 

^^^^ what that man said, along with a good ignition timing adjustment and eventually an electric cooling fan replacement.
If it is not enough, then it gets complicated and involves heavier modification.

 

Exhaust is the first mod, once its breathing better you need to bump up the ignition, the OEM one is weak. Look up DFIS and you will see whats involved. Next up better intake. Either hog the nikki or go with a weber either dcoe or ida but it requires fickle tuning to make it just right. Electric fan helps as well but may require a better alternator. So you do all this and you can easily see 50% bump up in power. Stock the HP to the wheels is about 85, mine with these mods went to about 134 to the wheels, you do the math.

 

start with the exhaust. it will most likely be your single biggest hit.

when it's time for more, follow t g farrell's blueprint. it's solid.

 

And after you've done all that stuff, then start looking at lightened flywheels (*aluminum is lightest) and rear gears to help get what power you have to the ground easier and more effectively. Lighter wheels, performance tires, and better brakes round out the long list of modifications many of us will make to 1st Gen cars.

 

Yeah I forgot one more, the 82 flywheel is the lightest and gets you back 8lbs of rotating mass. Really can feel it once its installed. Cheaper than the fancy light flywheels from RB too!