[jerrys84]

the torque converter is designed to keep the engine in it's power band.

stock converters are'nt designed to do that..

what year engine?

302's have a lot of breathing restrictions, cam's, intake, heads and exhaust help these motors tremendously.

also; what gears are you running in the rear end??

In my opinion gears would be the best money spent, and the most noticable change..