Serpentine Conversion Big Block
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 112
Likes: 0
From: Rockwall, TX
Serpentine Conversion Big Block
Is anyone using the Kwik performance system? I’m not worried about having to notch the crossmember but more concerned about control arm clearance. The only aftermarket conversion that guarantees fit I can find is the March kit. I do not have A/C.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,485
Likes: 460
From: Lititz PA
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 40,448
Likes: 793
From: Redondo Beach, California
I'm interested in this Holley serpentine kit to be available at the end of this month.
https://www.holley.com/products/engi...parts/20-242BK
Myself, I wouldn't be interested in notching the crossmember. It's weak enough as is. They are subject to bending, bowing in, due to engine weight especially with a 600 pound plus BB bouncing up and down. If a serpentine system required notching the crossmember, I'd look at getting a small diameter pulley for the crank damper. I was getting close to getting a March system, which required notching the crossmember. and I asked if they could sell me one with a smaller crank damper....they said No! I have the GM Performance Parts catalog serpentine system on my 68. I bought a small crank pulley for it because I thought the stock pulley was overdriving the accessories, particularly the water pump.
https://www.holley.com/products/engi...parts/20-242BK
Myself, I wouldn't be interested in notching the crossmember. It's weak enough as is. They are subject to bending, bowing in, due to engine weight especially with a 600 pound plus BB bouncing up and down. If a serpentine system required notching the crossmember, I'd look at getting a small diameter pulley for the crank damper. I was getting close to getting a March system, which required notching the crossmember. and I asked if they could sell me one with a smaller crank damper....they said No! I have the GM Performance Parts catalog serpentine system on my 68. I bought a small crank pulley for it because I thought the stock pulley was overdriving the accessories, particularly the water pump.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,485
Likes: 460
From: Lititz PA
Myself, I wouldn't be interested in notching the crossmember. It's weak enough as is. They are subject to bending, bowing in, due to engine weight especially with a 600 pound plus BB bouncing up and down. If a serpentine system required notching the crossmember, I'd look at getting a small diameter pulley for the crank damper. I was getting close to getting a March system, which required notching the crossmember. and I asked if they could sell me one with a smaller crank damper....
If you're worried about the front cross member flexing, add a Spreader Bar. It fits with the March system too.
John
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 161
Likes: 53
From: Spring TX
I have the March Kit on my '73 BB. I don't like it because it has two belts and it doesn't have spring loaded belt tensioners. The inboard belt has to be tightened by moving the power steering pump. The bolts on the pump dig into the soft aluminum bracket. The outboard belt get tensioned by using a supplied rod that separates the alternator and the A/C pump. PITA!
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 112
Likes: 0
From: Rockwall, TX
By notching I don’t mean cutting away metal and leaving a void, but boxing it back in. When done correctly it actually can strengthen the area. Thanks for all the feedback and when available the Holley setup may be the best thing to purchase. I have all the factory pieces to make the Kwik performance conversion work so for now I am going to try it. I will give feedback when completed.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 878
Likes: 55
From: Deep South Denmark
I'm interested in this Holley serpentine kit to be available at the end of this month.
https://www.holley.com/products/engi...parts/20-242BK
Myself, I wouldn't be interested in notching the crossmember. It's weak enough as is. They are subject to bending, bowing in, due to engine weight especially with a 600 pound plus BB bouncing up and down. If a serpentine system required notching the crossmember, I'd look at getting a small diameter pulley for the crank damper. I was getting close to getting a March system, which required notching the crossmember. and I asked if they could sell me one with a smaller crank damper....they said No! I have the GM Performance Parts catalog serpentine system on my 68. I bought a small crank pulley for it because I thought the stock pulley was overdriving the accessories, particularly the water pump.
https://www.holley.com/products/engi...parts/20-242BK
Myself, I wouldn't be interested in notching the crossmember. It's weak enough as is. They are subject to bending, bowing in, due to engine weight especially with a 600 pound plus BB bouncing up and down. If a serpentine system required notching the crossmember, I'd look at getting a small diameter pulley for the crank damper. I was getting close to getting a March system, which required notching the crossmember. and I asked if they could sell me one with a smaller crank damper....they said No! I have the GM Performance Parts catalog serpentine system on my 68. I bought a small crank pulley for it because I thought the stock pulley was overdriving the accessories, particularly the water pump.
