Hello, First post on this site. My 63 coup has the base 250 hp and powerglide currently. I'm deciding on swapping out the drivetrain with a new crate. I'm looking for some advice or suggestions. The GM Ram jet is currently my first choice. Can a new 6 speed trans fit with little mods? The car has flare rear fenders with 50's tucked underneath. My base engine doesn't like all that rubber. I'm keeping the original drivetrain for my son when I get realllllll old! Any thoughts?
Thankx
Lyle

 

My 66 was originally a 327/300 with a powerglide auto. I have changed it to a crate 350 with a th 350 auto. I am installing a TPI to the 350.
I wanted a driver I can depend on. Also I have had my share of shifting in my life. I have seen people put ZZ4 and 400 engines in their cars and had to make so many changes to keep the engines cool that I am getting to old to stay under the hood all the time.
I think a person should do what they feel they are capable of doing without having the work always done by a shop. That is where the cost will hurt your pocket book.
Just my 2 cents.

 

Welcome!

Lots of choices. A ram-jet would be sweet. Even a ZZ4 or maybe a 383 Stroker would be a blast. There are a number of websites out there that detail the installs. Perhaps others can provide some links.

One source of tranny conversion kits is Keisler.

http://www.keislerauto.com/gm/transm...ette_63-67.asp
http://www.keislerauto.com/gm/transm...ette_63-67.asp

 

I spent some of last winter putting a ZZ4 crate and a Keisler 5-speed in my 63 SWC. If you are an automatic fan, you could still run your powerglide behind this motor too, although you might have to search a bit for a flex plate that will work. The ZZ4 was a drop in, and I added a Dewitt rad with electric fan and a March Pulley system for the accessories. It all works well, and so far has been maintenance free, which is what I was going for. The ZZ4 is a pretty mild motor, but has plenty of power to motivate the vette.
There are a bunch of posts in the archives on this swap, from others who have done it, and a lot of discussion, but bottom line is that it's pretty straightforward.

Bruce

 

This is a project worthy of in-depth research. Some engine/parts combinations will go right in. Others can start a chain reaction where one change demands another and so on. For example, a ZZ4 is pretty straight forward. A ZZ4 with Vortec style heads causes problems with hood clearance and exhaust manifolds. Take your time and research past posts on this topic before you put any money down.

 

Great info with regards to the engine swap. I will check out the past post archives. Interesting to note that the 250 and 300 hp motors had the same intake ports but a different manifold and 2.5 exhausts? Thank everyone.