Engine swap...sbc into a '80 Trans Am? [Archive] - Chevelle Tech

: Engine swap...sbc into a '80 Trans Am?


SILVERSS454
Apr 11th, 04, 11:36 PM
Guys, I need your help. A friend is wanting to swap a 355 small block Chevy into his '80 Trans Am. It currently has a weak 301 non-turbo motor.
Can anybody give us the part numbers for the FRAME MOUNTS necessary to do this swap?
Even a lead on a website that might carry such items would be helpful.
Thanks in advance!

p.s. oh yeah, we know the trans(bell housing) will hav eto be swapped for a Chevy bolt pattern as well.

BillsCamino
Apr 11th, 04, 11:42 PM
I'd do a "wanted to buy" ad here...
http://www.nastyz28.com/cgi-bin/forumdisplay.cgi?action=topics&number=6&SUBMIT=Go

Any 2nd gen Camaro frame mounts will work. Someone is always parting one out...

Also, you could ask in the forums here...
http://www.camaros.net/cgi-bin/forum/ultimatebb.cgi

BlueSS454
Apr 12th, 04, 12:31 AM
I did an Olds to chevy swap and I got the frame mounts at the local auto parts store. All 73 and newer cars use the clamshell mounts. THe mount itself is the one that bolts to the frame. The piece that bolts to the engine is a metal bracket you will need to get from a donor car. I got mine off of a Monte Carlo in the junk yard. I also took all the pulleys, brackets, altenator, and PS pump to do the swap. If he wants the AC in it (if it has it) take the compressor and lines also.

SILVERSS454
Apr 12th, 04, 10:12 AM
Guys, this is helping lots!
Will we need to drill new holes for the frame mounts or are there holes already there?
He has a mild 355 so, I think he is going to try to use the AC.
He was also wondering about "shaker" hood scoop...does it fit against the hood OK with a Chevy motor in there? I think he has a Performer intake on his 355.
I'm sure we will run into a few trouble spots but, I told him a set of headers (or exhaust manifolds) for a 77-81 Camaro would fit just fine being that both cars are F bodies.
Any other help that would make this swap easier would be appreciated!
I know this is a Chevelle page but, I TRUST you guys!

BlueSS454
Apr 12th, 04, 10:35 AM
The holes should already be in the frame to install the chevy mounts as it is the same chassis as a Camaro. They were there on my Olds. I do not see any reason why the hood scoop would not fit with a chevy engine in there. If it is a plain old Performer, it is a stock, low rise replacement and should not pose any problems.