big block vs small block
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Joined: Feb 2000
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From: frederick md
big block vs small block
Hi All,
I currently own an 85 C4 vette, but I am in search of a C3. I have always wanted a big block C3...68 thru 72.
But recently I have been cautioned by a fellow vette owner to stay away from big block vettes. He claimed that the big blocks were more difficult to work on, and the parts were more expensive. :confused:
Are they more difficult to work on? Perhaps because there is less room in the engine compartment?
Are the parts significantly more expensive? I'd probably want to just keep the engine relatively stock. We all know that there are probably more parts available for the SB chevy engine than any other engine in history, but I'd think that BB parts should be around.
I have done a lot of engine/drivetrain work on my C4. Are there any guesses on how my experiences may be different with a C3 in need of a resto? :confused: Are the C3 vettes simpler to work on? My L98 seems to be relatively time consuming to work on because of the emmissions, tuned port intake setup, and computer stuff.
My C4 is a driver, and I'd like my new C3 to also be a driver. The plan is to sell the C4 once the C3 is dependable.
Thanks for your help.
I currently own an 85 C4 vette, but I am in search of a C3. I have always wanted a big block C3...68 thru 72.
But recently I have been cautioned by a fellow vette owner to stay away from big block vettes. He claimed that the big blocks were more difficult to work on, and the parts were more expensive. :confused:
Are they more difficult to work on? Perhaps because there is less room in the engine compartment?
Are the parts significantly more expensive? I'd probably want to just keep the engine relatively stock. We all know that there are probably more parts available for the SB chevy engine than any other engine in history, but I'd think that BB parts should be around.
I have done a lot of engine/drivetrain work on my C4. Are there any guesses on how my experiences may be different with a C3 in need of a resto? :confused: Are the C3 vettes simpler to work on? My L98 seems to be relatively time consuming to work on because of the emmissions, tuned port intake setup, and computer stuff.
My C4 is a driver, and I'd like my new C3 to also be a driver. The plan is to sell the C4 once the C3 is dependable.
Thanks for your help.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 38,923
Likes: 1,482
From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Re: big block vs small block (tp85)
A mechanic with any ability should not have trouble working on a big block. If you've been tweaking your C4, a Mark IV won't befuddle you or be beyond your abilities.
Parts are, or can be, expensive because there are a great deal more small blocks running around than big blocks. Supply and demand. Just the same, all the aftermarket parts suppliers will have big block goodies.
First thing is to do your homework. Buy and read the big block reference material to give yourself some background.
Parts are, or can be, expensive because there are a great deal more small blocks running around than big blocks. Supply and demand. Just the same, all the aftermarket parts suppliers will have big block goodies.
First thing is to do your homework. Buy and read the big block reference material to give yourself some background.
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 4,148
Likes: 5
From: Roxbury NJ
Re: big block vs small block (tp85)
The big block is no harder to work on than the small block. For some things (like plugs), it's MUCH easier.
Big block parts cost about the same as every other engine except for the small block Chevy. Nothing is as cheap as a small Chevy...
You say you intend to stay close to stock, so drive a stock big block, then a stock small block during your shopping. The BB engine will make the decision for you!
Big block parts cost about the same as every other engine except for the small block Chevy. Nothing is as cheap as a small Chevy...
You say you intend to stay close to stock, so drive a stock big block, then a stock small block during your shopping. The BB engine will make the decision for you!
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 11,872
Likes: 12
From: Waterloo ontario Canada
Re: big block vs small block (tp85)
I have a 454 in a 75 and it has lots of room to work on. The headers fit with lots of room, both tall valve covers come off effortlessly, the plugs are a breeze, distributor lots of room. Without all the pollution equipment and no air and electric fans my motor is easy to work on. As for the price of parts I don't really find them all that expensive. Machining costs are the same as a small block. But the torque of the big block in onreal. No small block will equeal it. In a race small blocks can give it a rough time but it takes a good working small block to do it. I had an old tired 427 that still turned low 12 teens till it finally blew.
They tend to be harder on gas but my blown 454 gets 12 mpg around town.
Norval
They tend to be harder on gas but my blown 454 gets 12 mpg around town.
Norval
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Joined: Feb 2000
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From: frederick md
Re: big block vs small block (norvalwilhelm)
Thanks for all of the replies. Any more opinions would be greatly appreciated. But it sounds like I should go for the BB. :yesnod:
I'm considering the purchase of a 1968 big block vette in need of resto. Original big block car, but engine was replaced with a 73 big block. 4 spd. T-tops, 70K miles. The car is pretty much original inside and out, but was repainted to a non-original color (dark metallic blue). Chrome bumpers are supposed to be in good shape. It is supposed to be a good driver, but has seen very little use over the past 10 years.
Assuming the frame is solid, what would be a fair selling price?
Thanks again!
I'm considering the purchase of a 1968 big block vette in need of resto. Original big block car, but engine was replaced with a 73 big block. 4 spd. T-tops, 70K miles. The car is pretty much original inside and out, but was repainted to a non-original color (dark metallic blue). Chrome bumpers are supposed to be in good shape. It is supposed to be a good driver, but has seen very little use over the past 10 years.
Assuming the frame is solid, what would be a fair selling price?
Thanks again!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 2,340
Likes: 2
From: Moro IL
Re: big block vs small block (tp85)
I spend a great deal of time in my engine compartment, and compared to the 86 in the garage it's heaven working on the big block. Parts aren't really all that expensive, cheap compared to the engines I used to build up (Cologne V6's). If your looking at big block vettes, don't overlook the slightly cheaper 73 big blocks or the even more affordable 74 big blocks.
:cheers:
Pat Kunz
:cheers:
Pat Kunz
Race Director
Joined: Apr 1999
Posts: 11,520
Likes: 13
From: CORVETTE 77 385 C.I. TEXAS
Re: big block vs small block (tp85)
...
But recently I have been cautioned by a fellow vette owner to stay away from big block vettes. He claimed that the big blocks were more difficult to work on, and the parts were more expensive. :confused:
Are they more difficult to work on? Perhaps because there is less room in the engine compartment?
Are the parts significantly more expensive? I'd probably want to just keep the engine relatively stock. We all know that there are probably more parts available for the SB chevy engine than any other engine in history, but I'd think that BB parts should be around.
I have done a lot of engine/drivetrain work on my C4. Are there any guesses on how my experiences may be different with a C3 in need of a resto? :confused: Are the C3 vettes simpler to work on? My L98 seems to be relatively time consuming to work on because of the emmissions, tuned port intake setup, and computer stuff.
My C4 is a driver, and I'd like my new C3 to also be a driver. The plan is to sell the C4 once the C3 is dependable.
Thanks for your help.
But recently I have been cautioned by a fellow vette owner to stay away from big block vettes. He claimed that the big blocks were more difficult to work on, and the parts were more expensive. :confused:
Are they more difficult to work on? Perhaps because there is less room in the engine compartment?
Are the parts significantly more expensive? I'd probably want to just keep the engine relatively stock. We all know that there are probably more parts available for the SB chevy engine than any other engine in history, but I'd think that BB parts should be around.
I have done a lot of engine/drivetrain work on my C4. Are there any guesses on how my experiences may be different with a C3 in need of a resto? :confused: Are the C3 vettes simpler to work on? My L98 seems to be relatively time consuming to work on because of the emmissions, tuned port intake setup, and computer stuff.
My C4 is a driver, and I'd like my new C3 to also be a driver. The plan is to sell the C4 once the C3 is dependable.
Thanks for your help.
You probably should go for it.
:cool:
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Verdad Gallardo
C6 the C5 of tomorrow
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 6,665
Likes: 2
From: Twin Cities Minnesota
Re: big block vs small block (tp85)
Hard to work on??
Compared to what? A C4? LOL No
Expensive? Compared to what? A small block? yes, anyother engine? no
Now repeat after me " Torque Torque Torque Torque Torque Torque" :D
Compared to what? A C4? LOL No
Expensive? Compared to what? A small block? yes, anyother engine? no
Now repeat after me " Torque Torque Torque Torque Torque Torque" :D
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 2,629
Likes: 7
From: Lawrenceville PA
Re: big block vs small block (tp85)
I think if you ask any small block owner if they wouldn't rather have a big block in their car you'd get 99% who would jump at the chance. I know I would swap my small block any day. Hell, I'd just love the chance to drive one.