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

[CaminoJoe]

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-]

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.

 

[454GrandPrix]

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.

 

[Chevyman540]

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.

 

[RGBody87]

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]

If you are using the 2241's and stock clam-shells

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

 

[Chevyman540]

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

 

[RGBody87]

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!

 

[RGBody87]

I used the energy suspension inserts and trimmed the upper as described in Malibu Racing. It doesn't affect the mountView attachment 103874View attachment 103875

Ahhhhh I can't thank you enough for coming through with pictures of what worked for you. This was a huge help for when I start trimming tomorrow. Thank you so much!

Ryan