Ok... ignition. I suggest an MSD 6A with Blaster Coil. This is something you can install yourself. make sure you order the adapter cable for GM.
Shift Kit. B&M Stage 2 kit, should be available at almost any parts store.
Have someone who knows what they are doing install this.
Exhaust, get rid of the OEM cat and replace it with a small high flow cat.
Use any performance muffler you like, I used a Hooker Maxi-flow that I got from Summit.
You can do this yourself, or pay someone to do it. I had custom bent pipes made up also so for me it was easier to have someone do it. I paid less than $200 for all parts and labor (pipe, cat, muffler, hangers, install, etc), Edelbrock makes headers for it, though I am not sure if it works on the 92 or not...
This is around $350 plus install lot of work to install yourself, but worth it if you want to save the money on install. have a blow torch handy to loosen bolts and studs!
My van is at the shop having these installed as we speak.
Edelbrock also makes a cam and intake manifold for the astro... not sure if they are for 92 or newer astros or not.. it is either 92 or 93 that that you can't use this stuff on.
Cam is not something you would probably install yourself, not without someone who knows a bit about engines. you have to remove the radiator and grill to get at the front of the engine to do this..
Intake can be done by a novice if you are careful and follow the directions. I have done this once on a differnet vehicle, but not yet on the van.
Crane also makes an ignition and cam for the astro
MSD makes a nice billet distributor.
This is something you could install yourself.
The ignition and exhaust and air filter will make a BIG difference and are the easiest and most cost effective to do. The shift kit will help you out also and isn't a major expense. headers, cam, intake, distributor are all more involved for install and a lot more pricey. I am just starting to get into this phase of modifications myself.
Also simple tune up stuff helps a lot as long as you keep on top of it. when was the last time you changed the cap and rotor? plus and wires?
get some Accel or MSD 8mm wires and some platinum plugs. (I use Bosch, though some people think they idle badly I have had no problems) change the oxygen sensor also.
most of this stuff you can order from any local performance parts place if they don;t have it in stock.
or you can try http://www.summitracing.com or http://www.jegs.com
------------------
90 Astro,
Haulin Ass, Not kids.
https://www.vanning.com/area51
[This message has been edited by Astro (edited May 23, 2001).]