Motor swap
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,921
Likes: 0
From: GA "When I grow up, I'm gonna get a Trans Am and run from the cops". Direct quote from my 4yo son.
Motor swap
I am getting ready to swap motors in my '80 and want some practical advice. I've done plenty of motor changes in other cars but not any Vettes. I don't want to pull it with the transmission (auto) if I don't have to. Basically I don't feel like unbolting all of that just to put it right back. The trans seems to work fine, but I am putting in a new torque converter since I'm there. However, if you all think it is easier to pull the motor with the trans attatched I will probably go that route. Thanks
Pro
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 520
Likes: 5
From: Front Range
he pulled the motor without removing the hood? that's amazing!
I've always pulled the motor sans transmission, the only real challenge is getting to the bellhousing bolts that mate to the rear of the engine block.
I've always pulled the motor sans transmission, the only real challenge is getting to the bellhousing bolts that mate to the rear of the engine block.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,456
Likes: 102
From: Piedmont Va
St. Jude Donor '11-'12-'13,'19-'20
I have always pulled the engine and trans together for the following reasons:
The whole Bellhousing/torque converter/starter assembly is much easier to assemble properly and test outside of the car.
It's a good opportunity to inspect the trans, cooling lines, modulator valve, trans mount, drive shaft u-joints..you get the picture..and replace anything thats not up to snuff....nothing worse than getting a new powerful motor in, and breaking something in the DT soon after.
It come's down to personal choice of course, and how much time and effort you want to put into it. Just remember, being proactive now might save you a tow and frustration later.
The whole Bellhousing/torque converter/starter assembly is much easier to assemble properly and test outside of the car.
It's a good opportunity to inspect the trans, cooling lines, modulator valve, trans mount, drive shaft u-joints..you get the picture..and replace anything thats not up to snuff....nothing worse than getting a new powerful motor in, and breaking something in the DT soon after.
It come's down to personal choice of course, and how much time and effort you want to put into it. Just remember, being proactive now might save you a tow and frustration later.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,921
Likes: 0
From: GA "When I grow up, I'm gonna get a Trans Am and run from the cops". Direct quote from my 4yo son.
Originally Posted by tyancey00
What are you dropping in? I am going to do this this winter. Just want to know what my options are...
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Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,921
Likes: 0
From: GA "When I grow up, I'm gonna get a Trans Am and run from the cops". Direct quote from my 4yo son.
Originally Posted by dosoctaves
I have always pulled the engine and trans together for the following reasons:
The whole Bellhousing/torque converter/starter assembly is much easier to assemble properly and test outside of the car.
It's a good opportunity to inspect the trans, cooling lines, modulator valve, trans mount, drive shaft u-joints..you get the picture..and replace anything thats not up to snuff....nothing worse than getting a new powerful motor in, and breaking something in the DT soon after.
It come's down to personal choice of course, and how much time and effort you want to put into it. Just remember, being proactive now might save you a tow and frustration later.
The whole Bellhousing/torque converter/starter assembly is much easier to assemble properly and test outside of the car.
It's a good opportunity to inspect the trans, cooling lines, modulator valve, trans mount, drive shaft u-joints..you get the picture..and replace anything thats not up to snuff....nothing worse than getting a new powerful motor in, and breaking something in the DT soon after.
It come's down to personal choice of course, and how much time and effort you want to put into it. Just remember, being proactive now might save you a tow and frustration later.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,456
Likes: 102
From: Piedmont Va
St. Jude Donor '11-'12-'13,'19-'20
I bought a GMPP 350/330 horse crate engine with the Vortec heads. At $2399 it seemed like a good deal. They put a Summit store about 50 minutes from my house so an easy pickup. I will try and post some pics of the swap etc.
