[yanniz]

Is anybody familiar with the GM 502 HO (450HP, 550 Ft. Lbs) crate engine? I am thinking about installing it in my '68 Chevelle.
I would like to be able to drive the car a few days per week, and eventually race it?
Also, if anyone has installed this engine in a late '60s Chevelle, can you please let me know how "easy" the installation was, and what type of headers you used?
Also, would I have to change the frnt end (or part of it) by going from a 350 to 502.
Thanks everyone.

 

[Sean Flanagan]

Buy new motor mounts, replacement originals will work, Otherwise that monster will drop in with no problem.
One of my buddies dropped one into his '79 Camaro, It runs like a dream with a 4L80 (T-400 w/over drive)and 3:23 gears it can honestly be driven daily with no problem, the only thing is it sounds like a 350 at an idle...SLEEPER!

------------------
Sean Flanagan
Heavy '73

 

[Doug Flynn]

Not that car rags are the best, but Car Craft just put one in their Chevelle the last few issues and I think had a parts list. They used a 4L80E. It ran a 12.0 with a 2000 stall convertor. Might be helpful.

 

[jmw]

Don't forget you'll have to swap out the 6 quart pan for a 5 quart that will clear the frame in a chevelle. I also believe that means a new oil pump pickup tube. Chevy makes a Chevelle pan as well as Hamburgers and I am sure a few others. I am waiting for the latest specs on the 99 HO502 to see if they have changed anything from 98 (when they added the roller cam!)My local guy says it takes until late spring to sell out the existing stock before they issue a new part number for the latest HO crate motor. Talk it over with your local rep and see what he says.

 

[jmw]

Almost forgot. Regards the front end, you will absolutely need big block springs to replace the ones you have. If you don't have disc brakes, do that swap out at the same time, you'll need them. Any of the major resto suppliers can set you up with the correct springs if you call.

 

[yanniz]

Thanks everyone. Actually what I was told is that the 99 will be the same as the 98, except a $300 or so increase!!
I have heard in a previous posting that it is a pain to get headers in the Chevelle with the 502 motor. I think someone said that Dynamax headers fit the easiest, without having to do any modifications on the headers.
Does anyone have an opinion in regards to this issue.
Thanks again for all your input.