Is a 304 worth rebuilding?

["Todd Wallis" <cyclone@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I pulled the trusty but tired 304 2bbl out of my 73 Javelin last weekend. 
I'm looking for more performance but nothing crazy.  I won't be running it 
at the drag strip and reliability is king in my book.  I am willing to spend 
a little money to get a little more out of it though.   I'll put some money 
in the heads maybe even splurge for aluminum heads on it and a 4 barrel 
intake of course.  I only plan on changing the pistons in the unlikely event 
that mine are not serviceable.   A friend has a 343 that he may be willing 
to part with.  He said it is in good shape but needs a rebuild.

1.  Is a 304 worth it?   I think I read that the Edelbrock heads are for the 
343ci and greater engines.  Sounds like it might preclude me from using them 
on the 304.

2.  Is it possible to get a reproduction emissions decal (on the passenger 
side of the cowl) and the alignment/tire balance sticker that was on the 
right side shock tower?

3.  Does anyone make the black plastic straps that hold the wiring harness 
to the inner fenders?  If not, are there any decent substitutes?

4.  My steering gear has a slow drip to it.  Is this common?  Can the unit 
be rebuilt or is it best just to replace it.  Obviously now is the time 
since the engine is out.

If I go with the 343, will all of my original brackets bolt right up?



Thanks for any input.

Todd Wallis
73 Javelin
70 Machine (for sale)
71 Cyclone