Crossfire

[Joono]

Alright, here's another one.

I've got a guy at work offering me an '81 Pontiac which he says is mostly crap, except for some random transmission and a 350 Crossfire in it. He told me $500, it's yours. Now, would this be a good deal as far as aftermarket support, and are these particularly problematic in any way?

I just figured the Chevy 350 would probably be a good swap for the Buick 231. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[pokertramp]

The crossfire engine was not a 350, it was a 305 with a cam shaft from the 350. The 305 is a LU5 engine and the cam came from the L-83. It was only used in 3 cars, the trans am, corvette and the camaro. Everyone has their opinions but I would say it's not worth it if you have money. If you have limited funds and want a V-8 then go for it.

🙂

 

[Joono]

Right on. Tell me, why isn't it worth it, though? I'm trying to find out why people do or don't like them.

 

[Blake442]

The Crossfire system has limited gains to be made for the money/effort put into it. Not to say it's a bad system, but if you were looking to upgrade further down line, you'd be better off starting with something else...

 

[Joono]

Alright. Appreciate it. So where would be a better starting point maybe for a V8 that isn't going to instantly incinerate my wallet? I guess what I'm asking is, what's solid?

 

[pokertramp]

For a 350 engine, your probably looking at almost $3,000 by the time you are done. That is with new parts and a crate engine. If you went with a junkyard engine and some used parts, such as intake, carb, distributor,headers and cheap mufflers it will be much less but you are still looking at around $1,000-$1,500, just a guess. There is a chance you can find a good running engine from a junkyard too.

Also, swap meets are the way to go. I am not buying anything for my car because I am on a limited income now and will be going to Englishtown New Jersey in April so I will hopefully find what I want there much cheaper.


Most of all, just be patient. There are tons of things I want to do to my car. I went from making $1,000 a week to nothing, diagnosed with cancer and have been out of work over a year. Now I am disabled and get disability. If it was years ago, my car would be done but now I have to work with what I got and just save every penny I can for when I am ready.

Hope this helps and best of luck with your project.