I would say, first a Weber downdraft carburetor, maybe re-work the dizzy a bit, invest in a better cam, maybe a header? Not sure how much NZ$1000 is in USD, but maybe a 5spd swap? Although I hear 5spds are quite pricey down under? Or see if you can have a used A14 fitted for around that price?

Hey Will, I reckon with some patience your $1000.00 could go a long way to improving the performance of your car. Normally I'd recommend upgrading the brakes and suspension but some mild mods won't cause too many problems. I would follow the SSS route, I'll keep an eye out for some 40 Dellortos and manifold that will be up to $500.00 add another $100.00 for a Coby extractor(header) and then give Kelfords in Christchurch a ring for a decent cam, something nice and torquey. Fitting this stuff isn't hard and any decent mechanic can handle it. Once thats done get a 2" exhaust joined to the extractors and you'll be amazed at the change in performance !!!

oh my god
i cant believe a $1000 goes so far in N.Z. as youre moneys roughly same value as ours in AUS. i would have suggested you could do one or two things but really needed more money, but you seem to be able to make a fairly decent car for only $1000

Will do you want to stick with an A12 if not you could go to a A14 there is a 5 speed for sale in chch at the moment $100 if not i would go the same as stirlingmac

The only thing is that changing to an A14 without a garage would involve paying someone else to do it. They seem to want to charge exhorbitant money for it. NZ$600 to put another A12 in, just for labour! Yeah I think that stirling is on to the right idea, twin 48s with a manifold to suit a 3SGE in todays trade and exchange for NZ$500 so i think that stirlings prices sound spot on.

Its doesnt take long to swap an A14 for an A12. If you have the new mounts made up and ready to bolt up its just a matter of pulling out the old donk and in with the new. You dont need anything special like a workshop, but an engine hoist make life easy. I've changed a few engines in the backyard with no hoists, just good old muscle power! Just get all your tools ready and go thru the process 1 by one until you have an A14 purring under the hood. If your on a tight budget, doing things yourself is the only way to save those crucial dollars!!

I've done practically every modification to my 1200 all by myself. No one has helped in any way but have gained alot of knowlege from alot of people to help me do it right the first time. Its just a big learning process and common sense really. I couldnt imagine how much money i would have spent if i got someone else to do everything for me! Hell, the car owes me over 10 grand all ready!!!

Over and out

Scotty
Davo

48s are huge and that will kill your std a12 evan an moded one $500 is a lot i picked up some 40's with oval port manifold for $350 do you have any friend's in NELSON that could help you fit an A14

Yeah, but that would take too long! I'm an impatient man! actually I'm just pissed ! teretonga can surely relate to this!

I'm back in a more sober way now! What I meant about it taking too long, is that I'm not home till the end of november, also I'm not sure If my parents would appreciate me doing it in their garage!

oh i see so what have you decided to do to your car

Taking stirlings idea and running with it! I'm waiting paitiently for some Dellorto 40s to fall in my lap, well actually I've got everyone in town looking out for me! That'll be the start for me I think.
Anyone got some 40s with a manifold for an A12 sitting around?!