Hey, I'm a guy on a budget and have found a few inexpensive tricks that work well.
1. Increase your air intake to the carb. An aftermarket open filter will help.
2. Run a good set of plugs and wires. Platinum are well worth the little extra cost.
3. Headers and an increase in exhaust pipe size will improve all around performance and torque.
4. A good 4 bbl and dual plane intake can be found pretty cheap through your local trader publication or swap meet.
5. Try anything you think might work. All it will cost is time......
Stroke ME.