Engine and transmission options
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 353
Likes: 0
From: West Point MS
Engine and transmission options
I am looking into replacing the not so performance based engine in my 75 and would like to know what some of you have done and your opinions on crate engines that are on the market. I looking at the GM performance parts engines, blueprint engines, and yearone engines. Have any of you had any experience with any of these manufacturers and if so, what are your thoughts on them?
Also, I would like to install a transmission with an overdrive. I have heard that the 200R4 works without having to modify the drive line but will require a modified crossmember. This car will be a weekend driver and I will not be racing it but I am sure will have the occasional desire to show what it can do. What are the suggestions on replacing the transmission vs. going with an upgraded TH400? Thanks
Also, I would like to install a transmission with an overdrive. I have heard that the 200R4 works without having to modify the drive line but will require a modified crossmember. This car will be a weekend driver and I will not be racing it but I am sure will have the occasional desire to show what it can do. What are the suggestions on replacing the transmission vs. going with an upgraded TH400? Thanks
Race Director
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 19,610
Likes: 778
From: Forked River NJ
I just installed a crate engine from GM for a forum member in his 77 car. His was an automatic also. I put in a GM 350/330 HP motor and a Keisler 5 speed and swapped out his 3.08 gears for a set of 3.55 gears. Thecar runs great. I drove it 2 hours back to his house and had a ball with it. Now it is not as fast as mine but has plenty of power to light up the tires and put you in the seat. Also the motor cost did not break the bank and he has a 2 year warranty on the motor. The overdrive made it a nice driver also without buzzing the motor. Fuel economy was not bad either providing you keep your right foot out of it. 
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 3,558
Likes: 4
From: Oakland California
You can pick up a 5.3 for very little money, and they make good power and you get better gas mileage since you're going to be cruising
. It's a bit more work to do, but you'll be happy with the result.
