EL CAMINO Motor/Frame Mounts for big block swap in '85 elco

Status
Not open for further replies.

CaminoJoe

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Jan 28, 2018
11
16
3
Hey all,

I've got a 396 big block with 325 hp waiting to be dropped into my elco (stock engine was a 305 small block). And before I make the mistake of trying to drop it in, I want to ask:

Will the mounts on the engine match with the motor mounts on the frame? Just want to know in case I need to make adjustments. I hope not. Thanks guys! If pictures are required I'll try and take some soon.
 

-83MONTESS-

Comic Book Super Hero
Nov 4, 2010
4,570
967
113
Bellevue, Ohio
If you are replacing a small block chevy with a big block chevy then yes the mounts are the same and they mount to the frame in the same spot. Swap the mounts over from your small block and you will be golden.
 
  • Agree
Reactions: 2 users

454GrandPrix

Master Mechanic
Jul 27, 2016
429
818
93
Lehi, Utah
Yes, SBC --> BBC is a direct bolt-in. You can re-use your stock subframe mounts (though I'd check their condition carefully while the engine is out, of course).

When I converted my car from its Buick V6 to a BBC 454, I removed the V6 frame mounts and replaced them with ones for a 305-powered Monte Carlo. My 454's engine mounts ("clamshells") dropped right into place.
 
  • Like
  • Agree
Reactions: 1 users

RGBody87

Greasemonkey
Jan 7, 2018
143
38
28
What type of exhaust are you going to use? There is a good right up over on the Malibu Racing site for the swap.
http://www.maliburacing.com/bbc_conversion.htm
I used the 2241 hooker headers fit really well. Had to trim the clam shells a bit. And I couldn't use tall valve covers with A/C.

Hey! I am glad I caught this late better than never. I just tried installing my headers but they are hitting the clam shells. I didn't want to trim them, but would rather replace them with a lower profile one. Did you consider the Prothane ones? Thanks!
 

TURNA

Rocket Powered Basset Hound
Jul 24, 2009
10,941
19,990
113
Socialist NY
If you are using the 2241's and stock clam-shells

You have to clearance the clam-shells there is no way around it
 
  • Like
Reactions: 1 user

Chevyman540

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Jan 11, 2016
42
62
18
Hey! I am glad I caught this late better than never. I just tried installing my headers but they are hitting the clam shells. I didn't want to trim them, but would rather replace them with a lower profile one. Did you consider the Prothane ones? Thanks!

I used the energy suspension inserts and trimmed the upper as described in Malibu Racing. It doesn't affect the mount MC work progress 004.jpg MC work progress 005.jpg
 
  • Like
Reactions: 1 users

RGBody87

Greasemonkey
Jan 7, 2018
143
38
28
If you are using the 2241's and stock clam-shells

You have to clearance the clam-shells there is no way around it
Turna!

Thanks for coming through again. I'll measure and mark out the clam shells tomorrow and trim them up. I appreciate the feedback. I'll throw in the Prothane mounts to get rid of the horrible rubber mounts I have in the car currently, but it'll be good to get the headers in and get back to the project. Probably going to just use an oil vacuum to get the oil out now that I cant remove the plug because of the location.... I may only get one oil change in before I pull the engine and put some power in this monte finally!
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

GBodyForum is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Please support GBodyForum Sponsors

Classic Truck Consoles Dixie Restoration Depot UMI Performance

Contact [email protected] for info on becoming a sponsor