Replace 1978 SBC with a BBC.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
From: Monterey, TN
Replace 1978 SBC with a BBC.
Any gotchas if I were to replace the 78 SBC with a BBC?
I know things like exhaust, fuel line, perhaps radiator and springs, but what about A/C brackets etc... I'm mostly concerned about brackets. Anyone make a kit for this?
I know things like exhaust, fuel line, perhaps radiator and springs, but what about A/C brackets etc... I'm mostly concerned about brackets. Anyone make a kit for this?
Race Director
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 18,736
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,381
Likes: 416
From: N J
Its pretty much a bolt in swap, no big surprises. Converted my 77 and the front springs work fine on my car.
I went with an aluminum radiator and electric fans. It all fits under my stock hood. Very happy with the swap.
All the original style bracket and pulley parts are available, but I have never seen a complete sb to bb conversion kit for all of them.
With all the serpentine kits available, it may be something to look into.
I went with an aluminum radiator and electric fans. It all fits under my stock hood. Very happy with the swap.
All the original style bracket and pulley parts are available, but I have never seen a complete sb to bb conversion kit for all of them.
With all the serpentine kits available, it may be something to look into.
Pro
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 583
Likes: 61
From: USA
if you want AC, might have to use a modern Sanden compressor. AlanGrove AC mtg brackets PN118R for BBC with short water pump. looks like it puts the compressor in about the same location as where GM put it.
http://www.alangrovecomponents.com/B...Short_Pump.htm
http://www.alangrovecomponents.com/B...Short_Pump.htm
Last edited by rpoL98; Nov 15, 2019 at 02:39 AM.
Dr. Detroit
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 10,097
Likes: 4,027
From: New Braunfels Texas
The A/C brackets would be the biggest issue as the 78 uses the short R4 compressor and the early 68-74 Big Block had the long compressor........maybe a 77 Malibu/Caprice bracket would work...I believe that was the last year for 454 in passenger car.
Jebby
Jebby
