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1975 Crate big block

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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 01:02 PM
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Default 1975 Crate big block

Hello-

I am new to this forum and a prospective C3 owner. Great information- very knowledgeable folks-

I think I want to purchase a 70's convertible and with a standard engine and then have a crate 454 dropped in.

I know that the last year of the big block was 74 but does anyone know if can I just as easily but a BB in a 75 convertible?

Any advice would be appreciated-

Thx

Lou
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 02:36 PM
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I'm guessing there is no difference in the frame itself, especially in the engine area. However, you will have to replace the radiator since the SB ones are smaller. Also, most small block accessories probably won't fit the BB (fuel pump, fan, pulleys, etc.), but you probably knew that already. Bellhousing would also need to be changed and you'll probably have to beef up the transmission also. But this type of work is what makes things interesting, right?
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 03:04 PM
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The motor will drop right in. No need to change the bellhousing as they are the same. You will be putting on new fuel pump and water pump anyway. The brackets for the acc. will be different and a new rad will be needed. Probably a newset of front springs won't hurt either. Many here have converted their post 74 cars to big blocks. Not a real big deal to do. Just costs $$$ as does everything on a Vette.
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 03:09 PM
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Where are you located? Depending on the state you live in, you may not be able to do anything (and I do mean ANYTHING!) due to emissions testing regulations...
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 03:13 PM
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I agreee with Page 62....If your looking for a car to Mod...get a 73-74. I see this emmissions thing only getting better and as those cars were pre Catalytic converter most all of the new laws will not apply.
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 03:52 PM
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Thanks for the info- Sounds like doing a 74 Mod is pretty much the same as doing a 75. $ and all....

BTW is the Auto transmission on the 74 the same as the 75?

Last edited by LouAZ; Nov 19, 2004 at 06:40 PM.
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 03:54 PM
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Originally Posted by 75rag4sp
I agreee with Page 62....If your looking for a car to Mod...get a 73-74. I see this emmissions thing only getting better and as those cars were pre Catalytic converter most all of the new laws will not apply.
I am in Tempe Arizona but I think I can get around the emissions thing by registering it at my address outside of Maricopa county.

Last edited by LouAZ; Nov 19, 2004 at 04:45 PM.
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 09:32 PM
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Hello,
I thought you might be in Arizona with the name LouAZ.

If you are going to rebuild or modify the engine, then the smog laws of the state will prevail. You said you could register it outside of Maricopa county so that probably puts you near Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, etc.

Good luck finding one.

kdf 1973 454
kdf 1986 L98
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Old Nov 19, 2004 | 09:59 PM
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Thanks-

I think the way it works in Arizona is that if the car is registered in Maricopa county (Phx, Tempe, Mesa etc...) or Tucson then all vehicles after 1967 need to pass emissions. However, if you register it outside of Maricopa county then you can get a waiver. I do live in Tempe but also have an address in the northern part of the state that I plan to use.

Lou
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Old Nov 20, 2004 | 05:42 AM
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GM sells a nice 454HO for ~$4700 from GM Parts Direct. Consider it when you pick your motor. DeWitts can sell you the radiator... Sounds like a fun project! Enjoy!
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