big block 79
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 689
Likes: 12
From: huntington wv
big block 79
I recently purchased a nice 79 corvette.it has a nice 350 in it and it runs better than stock,just a mild cam 350, edlebrock intake,quadrajet,i would say it is in the 275 to 300 hp range.it runs good but I like a little more power.i looked at maybe doing a 383 I have one in my 89 and it is a very strong motor.for a little more I can build a 496 bb.i have one in my 68 Camaro and it is a beast.here is my question,will it fit in a 79.with aluminum heads will I need to change front springs.is this too much power for this car and will I be opening a can of worms and have to upgrade trans,drivetrain and brakes to handle a 600hp engine.i think a bb 79 would be very cool.i would like to keep it bone stock with the bb power plant.i have also looked at a lower hp 496 that has around 500 hp,maybe that would be a better match.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 7,123
Likes: 433
From: Gladstone MO
C3 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
The biggest can of worms will be the cost of the accessory drives. All the BB brackets and pulleys are not cheap.
A 383 or even a 427 SB is a bolt in. More bang for the buck.
I'm a BB fan- IF you want a BB, go for it.
A 383 or even a 427 SB is a bolt in. More bang for the buck.
I'm a BB fan- IF you want a BB, go for it.
Last edited by TimAT; Nov 16, 2013 at 12:52 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 971
Likes: 45
From: Middlesex NJ
It will fit in with the same motor mounts. It's longer so accessories get difficult but you appear t be capable of doing that with ur other swaps. I used mc jacks headers to simplify the exhaust long tube heAders just take up allot f room and then there's ground clearance. Mcjacks and a 2 1/2 chambered exhaust all the way out fine and easier to install.
Trans and rear components hold up depending n ur foot and how you traction is wether its a good small block or big block.
You won't need springs with aluminum heads and it depends what u do with the AC.
Small blocks can produce big hp and simplify install ....but a big block looks really cool with hood open.
Matter of taste and wallet really.
Trans and rear components hold up depending n ur foot and how you traction is wether its a good small block or big block.
You won't need springs with aluminum heads and it depends what u do with the AC.
Small blocks can produce big hp and simplify install ....but a big block looks really cool with hood open.
Matter of taste and wallet really.
