Tell that mechanic he doesn't know what he's talking about first of all. Our cars run so much better with out that smog system its not even funny. It eliminates a lot of weight off the front of your car and allows for more horse power. The smog system back then is primitive and really does not do any good as far as emissions standards. Being that your car is almost an antique like my 80 malibu, you don't have to worry about meeting emissions inspection standards as much (depending on what state your in). I wish I were there cause I've already kanked those smog systems on my malibu, a 85 silverado, and another dodge pick up. If you take off the complete smog system, it allows for the motor to be freed up and provide more horse and torque. If you put on headers, the car will breathe easier than it would with stock manifolds. And if you have that charcoal canister you can chuck that whole assembly too. Whatever hoses you remove make sure you cap wherever those hoses went to. If you take the EGR valve and other misc. crap off your intake manifold you can cap those as well with the proper fittings. They sell them in all the hardware stores. My suggestion would be just getting an edelbrock intake and keeping your carb since its rebuilt. Are you running a Q-jet carb or do you have the 2 barrel throttle body?
Now I know your going to need to get your timing redone because you swapped out the majority of your electronic system. All the parts you put in as far as the wires, cap, etc. are aftermarket and not stock so you will have to get your timing done and that should eliminate most of your problems. Also, do you have any pics of your engine (specifically without the air cleaner on it)?
