Is it worth my time to add an intake to my stock 350?

[74k20]

Would adding an Edelbrock Performer intake to a stock original '74 350 gain me much?  I have 2 intakes, but both are already sealed up on new motors and would rather not waist gaskets ($) if only a small gain.  Not really the best time to spend for a new intake right now.  Plan to install an HEI this weekend if that matters.  Towed for the 1st time last weekend and wasn't impressed at all.  Motor currently runs GREAT (11.2mpg), but wouldn't mind adding a tad hp/fuel efficiency until I get my sb400 up and ready (about a year out). 

So is it worth my 1/2 day tinkering for a minimal gain?  I say 1/2 day, as a simple intake swap would lead to lots of cleaning, linkage tinkering, possible re-tuning, quadrajet spacer cost, ect.  Basically I HATE tuning carbs and just have bad luck fine tuning.  I'm keeping an eye on Craigslist for another used intake, then it will also swap onto the sb400 later.  I'll most likely grind off Edelbrock and paint to look original.  Or I wait for a good deal and better $$ timing on a new intake (air gap) later down the road.
 
My set up:  '74 k20, 350, 146k original miles, th350, np203 (now part time), 7.5x16 tires (31"), going with 255x85x16 (33.3"), 4.09 gearing. Dual exhaust long glass packs, but factory exhaust manifolds.  Planned on doing a small mild summit cam kit, but then the sb400 came along.

Almost everywhere I go requires going 60 mph highway speeds.

Not sure I'm up for all the tinkering and then end up being disappointed with results.  Aiming for better pedal response which would equal efficiency - I think.

Opinions please - thanks

[eventhorizon66]

I'm sure there will be several that disagree, but I wouldn't waste my time or money.  If throttle response and fuel efficiency are your top priorities, the stock intake does just fine on a stock engine.  An Edelbrock performer will really only begin to shine in the midrange, when compared to a stock intake.

If you're looking for a bolt on, go for headers, and a free flowing dual exhaust (the typical old-style "glasspack" with internal louvers or choke points is NOT free-flowing).  That will likely not require any tuning and will be nice for the 400 down the line.  But once again, if money is not on your side, wait for the 400.

[ohio hab]

I agree with the above post, if you want a little gain in performance, put on headers and a free flowing exhaust. If you change out the intake, I feel you won't notice much difference also. I originally had a stock 305 in my 1984 C-10, changed intake out didn't notice much difference, then put on Hooker Super Comps headers, idled slightly better and ran much stronger.

[VileZambonie]

Well if he's going to modify the exhaust he should modify the induction system too right? Here's the problem, one thing always effects another. To answer your original question, if your future plans do include exhaust upgrades, carb tuning, maybe a camshaft it would be worth your while otherwise I agree with event. Don't bother.