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Replacing Engine.. 1969... Lt1 Or Ls1 Or Custom Big Block?

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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 03:12 PM
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Default Replacing Engine.. 1969... Lt1 Or Ls1 Or Custom Big Block?

my buddy just bought a mako shark 1969 but i guess somebody pulled out the original 427 and replaced with a 350.. how odd!

anyhow, what would be the fastest and most convenient way to get 350+ horsepower without too many mods?

where would we be able to buy a custom engine thats ready to directly bolt on?

or should we buy a used LT1/LS1 motor/tranny/rear???

much appreciated
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 03:35 PM
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IMO, a LS series engine is FAR SUPERIOR to anyting you can find in a SBC, even BB....fuel economy, is foremost....assuming you keep the computer....I wuld put an overdrive lockup auto after it....I have a 200 4r in my car, but just a later roller SBC...

the LT1 engine is a disaster because of the distributor being up front and down close to the water, and that reverse cooling....it's a last gasp for the SBC block/heads/configuration.....and a mess....
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 03:51 PM
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The LS1 would certainly be a great engine, but not the most convenient way to get 350hp.

It isn't too difficult to reach that goal. Depending on what setup you have now, you can replace the exhaust, put some aftermarket heads on it, with a good cam and intake and you will be well on your way.
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 04:59 PM
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ZZ4 crate engine from GM, 355 HP, 405 LBs torque. Almost a direct bolt in reusing most of the parts you already have!
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 05:09 PM
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while i respect genes opinion, i believe an LS engine swap simply involves too much fabrication for a relatively mild build.
i'd suggest the LT1/LT4 route with the newer components that address his very real concerns about the optispark distributor. it would be very easy to get 350hp out of either of these engines and still get excellent gas mileage and not reek of raw fuel out the tailpipe.
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 06:10 PM
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How about the ZZ 383?
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 08:09 PM
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Originally Posted by Roadster71
ZZ4 crate engine from GM, 355 HP, 405 LBs torque. Almost a direct bolt in reusing most of the parts you already have!
that's what i put in my '69 and I am very satisfied with it.

Steve
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 08:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Roadster71
ZZ4 crate engine from GM, 355 HP, 405 LBs torque. Almost a direct bolt in reusing most of the parts you already have!

As far as ease of the install. To replace what you have with another small block would be a bolt in deal. As mentioned you can get the ZZ4 or build a 383 or 406 and have over 350HP pretty easy.

As far as cost everything goes up from there.

You can build a simple 454 Big Block to make an easy 500HP but you may still have to replace your front coil springs with some VBP 550 pounders and not to mention you would have to find the correct pulleys and brackets as well.

And then you get to the more exotic stuff.
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 11:52 PM
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Sure like to see a big block in that Mako!
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Old Apr 24, 2007 | 11:55 PM
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Rats rule! Big torque and power without stressing everyting to death.
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Old Apr 25, 2007 | 01:23 PM
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zz383.... 425/460 :-) $5200 all you need is intake and carb. ready to roll or smoke whatever
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