Looking for some performance modifications for my late '31

[Turkey Broth Trading]

Greetings all;

I'm new here and hoping to find some sound advice. Many folks told me this was a good site and it surely is a wealth of knowledge.

Here's my story:

A couple years back I purchased a late 1931 Tudor from a friend. The chassis was finished and ready to install on the near finished body. Well, as things turn out, my chassis was far from being (properly) completed. As of now, I have nearly redone the entire brake system, changed both axle shafts, four new cast drums, 10 linings, shafts and installed new king pins, etc. You get the point!

Seeing that the brakes were not up to snuff, I decided to pull the head. Once again, I bought the car with the understanding the engine was "fresh". Upon pulling the head, one stud had pulled from the block, so I am glad I took this step. Then it seemed as though the pistons (.040) were washed so I decided to removed the engine. Well, the bores are perfect, the rings are badly worn. One piston fell out of the bore on it's own. I will assume that the hone was to coarse and scrubbed the rings away? Bearings check out perfect. Rear main is drier than a popcorn fart. Has adjustable valves and fibre gear. Valves look new, not stainlees steel. All looks good, save and except the rings and pulled stud. These are all items that are no problem to tackle. One other thing is that the oil sump was nearly plugged from the generous amount of silicone that squeezed off the pan gasket.

Here's the meat of my thread:

What would be acceptable modifications to improve performance with out trying to make it in to a "Hot Rod"? I want a daily driveable car and not wanting to spoil the look or appeal of the original car. I would like mods that could be changed back if ever need be also.

Here are some of my thoughts. I see threads about a "B" grind camshaft picking up nearly 8 BHP. Lightening the flywheel seems to make sense also. Would any transmission modifications be worth the investment? What about an F-1 steering box?

Any and all input would be appreciated. Take it easy on me, I'm new in these parts. I am not wanting to make the car into something it isn't or to change the appeal of original car, but to freshen it up a bit.

Thanks for taking the time to read this and hoping to get a reply or two.

Craig
Berlin Center, Ohio