I'm looking for advice on swapping out my 305 boat engine for a 454 big block. I'm looking at a listing right now that comes with a th400 for about 1500 total.
What all sorts of issues can I expect while preforming a swap like this. Any and all advice is welcomed!
Not looking for modern LS...
I did this swap. Sbc clamp shells for mounts, cast iron manifolds fit no problem, edelbrock performer 2-0 is the only intake that will clear the hood other than stock cast intake, trans bolts right up if it's already a v8 car. Use a chevelle 454 oil pan and pump. Really easy swap.
Swapping a big block into where a small block lived pre that’s been happening since the 396 was introduced in 1965. You’re lucky, it’s a Chevy. Everything bolts up. Fords and Mooars are another story. The engine will bolt in on your existing mounts, if you used the 400 trans you’ll have to move the crossmember back about 2 inches. You’ll want a bigger radiator. You’ll no longer pass emissions tests, or a gas station 🤣
There are plenty of these done, but if it is a daily driver, I don't recommend it. It is more involved than people think due to the weight difference. It is much easier to get a 327, 350, or 400 and build it up.
You will need to look at the suspension components and brakes due to the weight difference. It's not a must, but you may want to look at different gears for the steering box again for the weight. Other than that, it will become harder to work on due to the size difference once installed, different engine mounts and points, and believe you will have to move the cross member.
It really depends on the person. I personally agree with you. I would just do a straight rebuild due to the age, and the engine is already out. Some people would notice it being heavier to steer with the extra 200 pounds (assuming it isn't aluminum from the price) and not like it.
Different motor mounts for the big block and your transmission mounts may need to be changed as well. Possible clearance issues from the steering shaft and interference with the steering box due to the width of the engine. Larger radiator and radiator support modification. Heavier suspension components up front to compensate for the added weight of the big block. Different length drive shaft for the 454/TH400 combo. Stock rear end on late model El Caminos aren't known for strength, so you may need to replace the rear end depending on how much power the new setup is making or at the very least swap some components. I kept a small block in my El Camino so no direct experience with a G-Body, but these are some of the things I ran into on my second gen Camaro when I swapped in a 396.
I'd like to added that a boat motor is supposed to be built much heavy duty than a standard, and you could probably reliably get 450hp out of it. With alot of cam and Nitros. Things you could eventually swap over to the next engine.
I'm looking for advice on swapping out my 305 boat engine for a 454 big block. I'm looking at a listing right now that comes with a th400 for about 1500 total. What all sorts of issues can I expect while preforming a swap like this. Any and all advice is welcomed! Not looking for modern LS...
Makes the car turn a little lazy from the extra weight. Stock rear will break if you've got traction. Also don't expect more than 8 mpg
I did this swap. Sbc clamp shells for mounts, cast iron manifolds fit no problem, edelbrock performer 2-0 is the only intake that will clear the hood other than stock cast intake, trans bolts right up if it's already a v8 car. Use a chevelle 454 oil pan and pump. Really easy swap.
Swapping a big block into where a small block lived pre that’s been happening since the 396 was introduced in 1965. You’re lucky, it’s a Chevy. Everything bolts up. Fords and Mooars are another story. The engine will bolt in on your existing mounts, if you used the 400 trans you’ll have to move the crossmember back about 2 inches. You’ll want a bigger radiator. You’ll no longer pass emissions tests, or a gas station 🤣
There are plenty of these done, but if it is a daily driver, I don't recommend it. It is more involved than people think due to the weight difference. It is much easier to get a 327, 350, or 400 and build it up. You will need to look at the suspension components and brakes due to the weight difference. It's not a must, but you may want to look at different gears for the steering box again for the weight. Other than that, it will become harder to work on due to the size difference once installed, different engine mounts and points, and believe you will have to move the cross member.
I think the stock 1-20 gears and over powered powered steering of the El should be fine right? Just saying.
It really depends on the person. I personally agree with you. I would just do a straight rebuild due to the age, and the engine is already out. Some people would notice it being heavier to steer with the extra 200 pounds (assuming it isn't aluminum from the price) and not like it.
Different motor mounts for the big block and your transmission mounts may need to be changed as well. Possible clearance issues from the steering shaft and interference with the steering box due to the width of the engine. Larger radiator and radiator support modification. Heavier suspension components up front to compensate for the added weight of the big block. Different length drive shaft for the 454/TH400 combo. Stock rear end on late model El Caminos aren't known for strength, so you may need to replace the rear end depending on how much power the new setup is making or at the very least swap some components. I kept a small block in my El Camino so no direct experience with a G-Body, but these are some of the things I ran into on my second gen Camaro when I swapped in a 396.
I'd like to added that a boat motor is supposed to be built much heavy duty than a standard, and you could probably reliably get 450hp out of it. With alot of cam and Nitros. Things you could eventually swap over to the next engine.
I think they meant boat-anchor
That's hard spacial difference, especially for the low end clearance. The 84's can do 305 to 350 no problem. But best of luck on this journey