Fuel Injection

Carburetors are so 20th century. Why not try a modern fuel-injection system that can offer gains in performance, efficiency and emissions? Plus, you won’t need to adjust it as you travel from sea level to the top of a mountain.

Adopting fuel injection isn’t always easy, however; not many turnkey kits currently exist for our market. Patton Machine Products offers a GM-based conversion kit for the Triumph TR6, but that’s one of the few options. It even looks like the stock carbs.

Solutions for other makes and models can range from mild to extreme. TWM Induction offers throttle body replacements for SU and Weber carburetors, but users are still responsible for their own ECU, wiring and plumbing. (MegaSquirt, an inexpensive, programmable ECU, is a popular option for these home-brewed setups; DIYAutoTune.com can help with hardware.)

Another option is to simply swap to a late-model engine—that move usually nets newer technology from oil pan to intake manifold. It may not please the purists, but swapping a Miata inline-four or GM V6 into an MGB is a relatively easy proposition. On a similar note, we’re seeing more early Jaguars powered by later drivelines.

Headlights

Sure, those sealed-beam headlights purchased at Wal-Mart only cost a few bucks each, but do they offer the best performance possible? A better option exists: halogen headlamps that use a replaceable bulb. They feature better optics that shed more light where it’s needed—like on the road. These European-spec lamps simply replace the standard sealed-beam units.

If there’s a downside, it’s the lack of DOT approval. For a legal compromise, check out the Hella Vision Plus lamps. They offer European-bred technology plus the U.S.-mandated aiming tips.

Engine Coatings

An engine rebuild is usually a big job. If you’re willing to put forth the time and money, why not maximize every possible option—especially on a racing or severe-use application? Today’s high-performance engine coatings can reduce friction and block excessive heat transfer. These coatings aren’t terribly expensive, either, assuming the engine is already apart and the parts have been cleaned. Applying both a thermal barrier and moly coating to pistons, for example, can easily cost less than $50 per cylinder.

Alternators

Updating a charging system from a generator to a later, more efficient alternator has been a popular modification for years, but an alternative now exists for those who prefer the stock looks. The Powermaster PowerGen looks like a generator but houses a modern alternator. Current applications cover older GM and Ford cars.