'81 w/big block
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Joined: May 2017
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'81 w/big block
I've seen one for sale and was wondering how a big block effects the overall handling and ride of the 81. Is this something stupid to do or a good swap? I had BB's in my 67 & 69 Camaros, 66 Chevelle and a 1915 T bucket... I've always been a sucker for the BB's.. what's your opinions on this swap?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2005
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A big block GENERALLY hurts the handling - pretty significantly - particularly if the person who did the swap didn't change springs.. But if the BB in question has aluminum heads, and aluminum intake and an aluminum water pump - that can be a whole different ball game. Such a big block would be within 25 - 40 lb of a small block. Move the battery to the back - and guess what - you are now pretty near equal...
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: No Where USA
If I was putting a BB into an 80 to 82 what smog equipment would you use. Why would you put it on when most states would not even need it to be on there.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2001
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From: Virginia USA
I couldn't tell you as I've never driven a BB Corvette but just keep in mind Dontov resisted putting a big block in Corvettes as he said it hurt the handling etc. Of course as an engineer he was forced to by the corporate big wigs. Back in the day there was a displacement war and that's probably why the BB made it into two seat sports cars of the time.
I would say you'd need to change the front springs (if not already done and you should ask if it's been done) to handle the extra weight. Also I beleive all the BB cars came with rear sway bars which were not stock on the SB cars and I don't think they were put on the '80's cars......could be wrong about that though.
I would say you'd need to change the front springs (if not already done and you should ask if it's been done) to handle the extra weight. Also I beleive all the BB cars came with rear sway bars which were not stock on the SB cars and I don't think they were put on the '80's cars......could be wrong about that though.
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From: Scottsdale Arizona
What I’d be catering to is those states that do require it, hence the origina point. Smog pump, smog tubes, E4ME carb, O2 sensor and computer. All could be made to work, but I wouldn’t bet on finding here. That’s all I said. Don’t know which state the OP is in.
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