1981 cutlass 3.8 v6 rebuild?? or swap??

[villain1]

What up people, I have a 1981 cutlass with the 3.8 v6 engine. My questions are if I rebuild the v6 is there anything I can do to add a lil power? or performance to it. Or am I better off swapping the engine?

 

[oldmansmonte]

What up people, I have a 1981 cutlass with the 3.8 v6 engine. My questions are if I rebuild the v6 is there anything I can do to add a lil power? or performance to it. Or am I better off swapping the engine?

Swap

 

[MeanBuicks]

Transplanting one of these drivetrains is always an option.

 

[BMR Suspension]

Welcome!

 

[villain1]

Oldsmanmonte, any suggestions not too big I'm on a 6.5k budget
mean bucks that would be freaking awesome what would something gorgeous like that run me?

 

[olds307 and 403]

Find a good running Buick 350, a direct swap for your 3.8. Basically a 3.8 with 2 cylinders added. Also either get the TH350 attached to the Buick 350 or a 2004r if your swapping gears and doing highway driving. Simple and unique. The Buick is a torque motor, means a fun street cruiser.

 

[clean8485]

If you're looking for a LITTLE bit of extra power, then a N/A 3.8 V6 can be modified. If you're looking for a substantial increase in power, then an engine swap is your best bet.

 

[oldmansmonte]

Oldsmanmonte, any suggestions not too big I'm on a 6.5k budget
mean bucks that would be freaking awesome what would something gorgeous like that run me?

You could do what I did on that budget.

Chevrolet performance 350, 330 HP.

http://paceperformance.com/i-6255511-19 ... ngine.html

Great motor. I've been more than happy with it. There is also a complete kit if you look online that included a 600 cfm carb.

Then get either a 200r4, 7004r transmission for under 2k. Including accessories you could probably pull that off for about $5,500-$6,000. I did it and Im even happier with it than I thought I would be. I have a car with a brand new engine and transmission. Theres nothing like it. I've never had that before.


Let me know what you think.

 

[MeanBuicks]

Oldsmanmonte, any suggestions not too big I'm on a 6.5k budget
mean bucks that would be freaking awesome what would something gorgeous like that run me?

Actually, if you can find the right donor, it could be surprisingly affordable. Keep an eye out for '86-'87 Turbo Regals for sale cheap. By that, I mean that there are a lot out there that have rusted beyond salvation and are only good for parts. Oftentimes, the car will still be running/driving but relatively inexpensive.

I've seen them from $2500 to $4500. Getting the whole car means you get the engine, transmission, ECM, harness, accessories and 8.5 rear end. I've seen a couple Turbo Buick powered Cutlasses and they make cool sleepers. May even happen to mine one day.

 

[villain1]

Hey guys thank you!
I don't mind my v6 running a bit better but then again that 350 330 sounds even freaking better I'm gonna do some homework THANKS again