What's a good intake manifold for my stock 302 2 barrel? And will there really be a difference from my stock intake? Do they make one that can be used for both 2 barrel and 4 barrel if I upgrade to a 4 barrel carb in the future?

 

you can get a carb adapter to keep using the 2bbl but id go weiand

 

agreed, for a "lower end" intake (and i mean by the power range not quality) the wieand stealth would be better than a edelbrock performer.

 

If all you are doing is replacing the stock intake with an aftermarket intake, you won't notice much difference in the power range. Just be sure you get a dual plane intake if you make the jump.

 

Can I have my current (original) Intake Manifold sand blasted?

 

you most certainly can, it will come back looking brand new.

just make sure they do a good job and it is rinsed VERY well before you bolt it back on. it only takes one grain of sand to scar up your bearings and muck up your motor.

 

Do you use the cork pieces that come with the intake manifold gaskets or RTV on the ends?

 

RTV FTW!

I've heard bad things about the front and back cork gasket pieces. Make sure you get the RTV thick enough and overlap it onto the regular gaskets. I can post pictures of my manifold/carb change when I get home if you would like me to.

 

That would be great. Thanks NCT

 

No problem. I'll run home at lunch (in a few hours) and take care of it for you.