MALIBU BBC w/factory A/C

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Ratchet

Master Mechanic
Jan 10, 2018
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Has anyone on the forum successfully installed a BBC in a Malibu with factory A/C? If so, what issues did you encounter? What motor mounts and headers did you use?
The car I’m considering swapping in a big block is an 80 Malibu.
 
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pagrunt

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Sep 14, 2014
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Look at stock front accessorys off any '69 & up BBC (long water pump years), you can reuse SBC mounts, use stock height valve covers, gotta dig into catalogs to see who still makes BBC headers but A/F/X bodies manifolds should be a substitute, low profile intake unless the hood has a scope that gives extra space. I've based this off a 32 year old Hot Rod atricle from May '88 (Hot Swaps, page 26).
 
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bracketchev1221

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Jan 18, 2018
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I am putting a big block in an 80. My setup is using parts from my 70 to do the swap. I have AC brackets from a 70-72 Chevelle and will use 70 power steering brackets. Like was said I plan on using the old 1 3/4" headers from the Chevelle and I have a set of late model Chevy black big block valve covers. I have been told that these can work with roller rockers and short poly locks. But I have not confirmed this. I will be mocking it up when I get it out of the Chevelle. Possibly have to use 2 gaskets stacked for extra room. For an intake I will be using the knockoff Edelbrock performer intake that is on it. I have seen other big block installs fit under the stock hood but it does not leave much room. The stock type small block motor mounts work, I think I am going to go with the solid mounts.
 
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GP403

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Feb 25, 2005
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The car that started it all for me, my dad's 79 Malibu Wagon, he put a 402 in there, kept the factory AC, low profile valve covers, stock GM '70-ish Chevelle manifolds IIRC. Could have been '70 Monte if they are even different. This was a factory 4-speed car, and it worked. It fit with the stock hood but as was said, it was a tight fit, the air cleaner left an indent in the hood insulation... Had to use a drop base air cleaner to get that much.

Don't ask me for more details as it was a long long time ago.
 
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Ratchet

Master Mechanic
Jan 10, 2018
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It looks like Hooker is making a set of long tube BBC headers, part # 2241HKR, for the G-Body. They have 2” tubes. Will there be any interference with these?
 

mc1984ss

Master Mechanic
May 18, 2020
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I have a set in my car and I had the factory A/C box installed but no compressor. The headers fit amazing. Any questions please feel free to ask
 
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