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502, Big Block questions

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Old Nov 20, 2001 | 10:25 PM
  #1  
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Default 502, Big Block questions

Is it possible to put a 502 in an 81 and keep the A/C, Power Steering and Power Brakes?
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Old Nov 20, 2001 | 11:20 PM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (Ben Taylor)

Yes, but!!

It will bolt in, but you need the BB brackets and pulleys. That is the costly stuff.

Terry
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Old Nov 20, 2001 | 11:55 PM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (Ben Taylor)

Yes, I have a ZZ502 in a 1980 - and have retained all the accessories.
You will probably have to use a small case style alternator..


[Modified by shawn_cake, 8:56 PM 11/20/2001]
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Old Nov 21, 2001 | 01:57 AM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (shawn_cake)

Will a small case alternator be able to put out as much or more power than a stock one? Right now when I roll up my windows or lock my doors the lights get a little dimmer, I'm hoping to fix this at the same time.
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Old Nov 21, 2001 | 10:08 AM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (Ben Taylor)

BEN,

THERE IS ALOT MORE THAN DROPPING IN A BB IN TO A CAR THAT WAS ORIGINALLY A BB.

1. RADIATOR: GET A BIGGER ONE. NO WAY A STOCK RADIOTOR FOR A SB WILL COOL A 502 IN YOUR PARTICULAR YEAR CAR.

2. FRONT COIL SPRINGS: CHANGE THEM FOR A SET RATED FOR THE NEW ADDED WEIGHT

3. AH YES, EMISSIONS: ARE THEY STRICT THERE? DO THEY LOOK UNDER THE HOOD? IF SO, BE SURE ALL THAT SMOG STUFF IS ATTACHED AND AT LEAST APPEARS FUNCTIONING. BUT I DONT KNOW IF IT WILL PASS A SNIFFER TEST, EVEN IF IT IS

4. THE BRACKETS YOU WILL NEED FOR A BB TO RUN YOUR PS/PB/AC ARE NOT EASY TO FIND. JUST GOING TO A JUNK YARD AND FINDING THEM AINT THAT EASY. AND THEY CAN BE EXPENSIVE FROM A VENDOR
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Old Nov 21, 2001 | 06:46 PM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (MELVIN)

All of the above. I put in a small case 93 amp. alt. but haven't driven enought to tell if it's enough. The brackets I got were all nos from Western Corvette in Calgary, alberta. (403) 255-2111 fax:(403) 252-9409. And I had to wait for several months. Changed the p/s pump and hose and alt. pulley. Triple crank pulley And used the small block a/c bracket, but I see that bracket is bust. I don't know why. Bigger rad and electric fans for cooling. Changed motor mounts to solid for the oil pan to fit. Air cleaner goes through the hood. Also changed to bb front springs.


[Modified by 2nspire, 3:47 PM 11/21/2001]
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Old Nov 21, 2001 | 09:48 PM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (Ben Taylor)

Hey, if I can put my absurd engine in with A/C, Power Steering and Power Brakes, there are no excuses for others out there! Your biggest problem with the 502 will be clearance of the valve covers...
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Old Nov 21, 2001 | 11:39 PM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (Merlin522)

I have roller rockers with stud girdles on my ZZ502... MaAde some custom tall covers because the "stopre bought ones" wouldnt clear...
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Old Nov 22, 2001 | 12:40 AM
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Default Re: 502, Big Block questions (Ben Taylor)

Is it possible to put a 502 in an 81 and keep the A/C, Power Steering and Power Brakes?
Yep. Works in my '79!
:chevy :chevy
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