What to do with my 3.8 cutlass

[81Regal]

In the long run I think you'll be happier with the sbc or old V8 swap. V8's are cheaper to build power. But if your looking for fast on the cheap Sbc is the way to go. Wider avalibilty of cores, cheaper engines and part's in general, bigger aftermarket following.

Now on the issue of the fuel line for the sbc swap you have a couple options. Replace and run it down the passanger side, that's how it is on our race car, now if you don't want to move the line here is your options. Run an electric fuel pump, or you can do like I'm going to do on my street car cutlass if I run a mechanical fuel pump and get stainless steel braided line. (Not rubber) Then hook it up to the metal fuel like and run it across the front crossmember to the pump.

Now looking at exhaust it's gonna be less headache to run headers. On the issue of the crossmember being in the way that can be cleared for dual exhaust without getting a double hump crossmember or beating the hell out of it. Get the S shapped header extentions from jegs for 20 bucks. It will curve over the crossmember or you can flip it and go under your choice really.

But all in all there really isn't much to the swap. So don't be scared! 😀

There's really not much you have to do for the small block chevy swap. You just need a engine, trans, monte carlo motor mounts and frame mounts, fuel line fix

I have to dissagree, since it has a Buick engine in there a SBB 350 will drop right in no changing frame pads, you can reuse the existing accessorys/brackets and if you are lucky no need to drain the freon out of the A/C system.

 

[duppyconqueror]

Yea, I would not be opposed to a sbc swap at all, but in my case I think If I can find the right olds or buick motor it will turn out to be cheaper. All I would need to do is pay for the motor, the rebuild, and the new radiator then bolt it all right up. Would there be a problem running my t200 trans with a v8 until I could afford a new one? Also can anyone tell me a rough average 0-60 time i can expect with a 350ci gbody? I'm not looking for a race car just some decent power on the road. Wouldn't mind smokin some mustangs though. Man I can't wait to do this swap!

 

[DoubleV]

Would there be a problem running my t200 trans with a v8 until I could afford a new one?

You'll be fine as long as you take it really easy. Plan on swapping out that glass-jawed 200 ASAP though.

Also can anyone tell me a rough average 0-60 time i can expect with a 350ci gbody?

Depends greatly on build and gearing. A mild 350 with 3.73 gears should get you 0 to 60 in about 6 seconds. With plenty of spinning and counting to myself, I'm getting to 60 in about 6 seconds with my very mild engine when I just punch it in drive. You can do alot better or alot worse than this depending on exactly what you do.

 

[MPac]

Are you sure you can get away with buick frame pads on a sbc? I've not heard that one but if it's true thats great! But if you don't floor it and drive the car normally that transmission will hold up. But if you drive it hard it's basicly a ticking time bomb.

 

[duppyconqueror]

He was talking about a SBB (small block Buick) not chevy

 

[Intragration]

If you can't get a motor and trans combo, I would say try to find a used TH350. It will bolt right in, and a used one in decent shape will far outlast that TH200. Performance numbers should be the last thing on your mind if you're going to run a stock TH200.

 

[dogsht]

If in time you replace the motor on this DD you would probably end up ahead if you replace the trans while you are at it. You probably can find a used 200-4r for cheap so why not do that and leave the th350 for a drag car etc. Technology & cheap available OD trans along with the price of gas have left the old 3 speeds behind.

Honestly if you are starting from scratch looking to buy and you leave emotions out there is little good reason to use a three speed non overdrive in these cars at least for a DD.

 

[81Regal]

Yes small block Buick will not fit on chevy motor mounts.