If you're on a budget, sounds like the 428 would be cheaper to finish. Driveline wise, either way LS or 428, the rear is the weak link and will eventually need addressed. You can get a later HEI distributor for a Pontiac, I don't recall if 83 was CCC, but that solves ignition. Either way you need custom exhaust. The earlier engine negates the need for custom gauges and electronic speedo. You may get lucky and be able to bolt the 3.8 alternator to the 428 brackets. Any competent driveshaft shop can tell you how they want you to measure for a shaft and build you one. Either way you need an upgraded radiator. Sounds like you're a few weekends and 12 packs away from having a runner. Then I would definitely find a set of the red and chrome "428" emblems Pontiac used on the rockers of the full size q-ships they came in and affix them prominently in a place no one could ignore.
In over my head
- Thread starter WhatIsItThisTime
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I think you answered your own question.
If you think you're over your head with what you have, then you'll REALLY be over your head with the LS. I'm not for or against LS swaps. But I AM for getting it running with the least amount of drama. In my book that means work with what you have. You're a good chunk of the way there. If you didn't already have a known running engine and trans combo, then I might suggest going the other route.
If you think you're over your head with what you have, then you'll REALLY be over your head with the LS. I'm not for or against LS swaps. But I AM for getting it running with the least amount of drama. In my book that means work with what you have. You're a good chunk of the way there. If you didn't already have a known running engine and trans combo, then I might suggest going the other route.
LS swaps are not necessarily budget friendly, either.
No matter the answer my vote is get the car going with what you have. It's way more fun having an imperfect running car.
I'm a Chevy guy all the way, but in this case use the Pontiac and 400 if it's just going to be a fun driver. Last I read Chevy puts the 400 in the new COPO Camaros.
Survey says- - - 428 baby! I had a 400 in my '81 Malibu and it was awesome. A '69 428 is a high compression engine. You can deal with that or change heads for low compression. It is also a long stroke engine meaning it makes brutal power at low rpm's. A T-400 is indestructible. Use it. 3:08 or 3:23 gears will be smooth on the highway even with a 7.5 rear. Finally, I am all about a Pontiac in a Pontiac. Nothing better.
428 torque monster verse another ls swap, just typing it hurts my bones!!
You got the engine and transmission so save your money an install it. The rearend is okay for them 30mph step on it wheel spins (good for sh*ts an giggles) but not for off the line with any amount of HP/TQ. So get a rearend with the savings if installing the 428.
Ls is just common now days, 428 is like chickens teeth.
You got the engine and transmission so save your money an install it. The rearend is okay for them 30mph step on it wheel spins (good for sh*ts an giggles) but not for off the line with any amount of HP/TQ. So get a rearend with the savings if installing the 428.
Ls is just common now days, 428 is like chickens teeth.
👍 It sure would beat an imperfect non-running car! I can tell you a couple things about that.
And my vote is 428, because 428!
I am a all chevy guy too , but this is a case were keeping it pontiac is the best choice . Usually theirs nothing as cheap to fix then what you already have ! Besides sounds like your half way there already , and dont sweat the exhaust once you bolt on your manifolds or headers the things that need to be done will become apparent . That 400 is bullet prof no worries their ! The 7.5 will do for now , just dont bolt on any big sticky tires on the back , or do a lot of hard launches
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