I'm nearly ready to add headers and intake. I also want to get rid of the smog system and pump. Should I rebuild the original carb or do I need a new one?

I have a 305 engine.

 

rochester carbs are pretty good and reliable, but if you are getting a new intake (edelbrock I am assuming) you may want to look into upgrading the carb to get the most out of the add on's you are doing, and if you plan on taking things further

 

Thanks for the info! I'm really new to this. What size would you upgrade to? A 500, 550, or 600?

 

I use to run a Holley 650 double pumper that was extremely great all around, you sacrified just a little on the top end but had great bottom end, the only downfall was the float was a little tricky now and then, but that also could have been operator error lol

The holley street avenger series reads rather well and would probably be a great daily driver carb but I have not used one personally.

You won't need anything bigger than the 650 and with a 305 that's probably too big, but if you ever decide to upgrade to a 350 at some point you will already have a carb that is perfect for it

 

Keep in mind your ultimate goals for the car. If you want it to be FAST, I'm not sure the 305 is the best motor to do it with.