[prbush]

I am just starting to modify a L78 pontiac 400 engine and would appreciate any help on which way I should go. The Trans am is stock in all respects and I would like to keep the rear end stock as well as not have to change the converter. It has an automatic transmission)Tryingto decide which parts to change out to give the engine more power (it is a stock, low compression and has all the smog controls on it). I would appreciate any comments or help on the following questions: I do not want to mess with the bottom end.
1. Should I eliminate the egr and air pump and add an rpm intake? If so what size cam should I use and what brand? I do not want a rough idle as the car will be a daily driver I would like the idle to be as smooth as possible.
2. Should I use a performer intake (if so should I use the one with the egr or eliminate the smog items and use the one without? If so what type and size of cam should I use?
3. Should I use the stock rochester quad or is it too limited due to the emissions and if I should change it out what brand and what size?
4. Should I use the stock distributor or change it out to something else and if so what type.
5. Are there any other modifications that I can make that would help with the torque and horsepower? As I said earlier I will be driving it daily and it will not be used for racing.
The engine had been severly limited in its horsepower due to the emission controls that were put in place and I want to try to bring back as much horsepower and torque as possible.
The engine was just re-built stock and therefore I do not want to go and redo pistons,etc.
I am so new to doing this that any help or information will be greatly appreciated. Hopefully I have not asked too many stupid questions....Thanks....................
FYI, the car is a 79 Trans am, 400 L78 engine, automatic transmission, etc.....