Big Block Swap For Trailer Towing
 

Thinking about putting a big block in place of the 283 in my 1966 Suburban. Been towing a 27 foot dbl axle camper trailer and feeling the limitations of the 283 small block - "it's time to put a bigger motor".

Looking for comments regarding ease of fitment, references to example threads that may be out there, suggested motor/auto-tranny combo.

Not looking for the Corvette super motor, just a good old fashioned big block with carburetor.

Re: Big Block Swap For Trailer Towing
 

Pretty much what we did...BBC/T400/D60.

Re: Big Block Swap For Trailer Towing
 

Thanks I have started looking at your awesome thread. Haven't studied every detail that you shared yet....did the motor fit in easy or was there clearance issues???

:sumo:

Re: Big Block Swap For Trailer Towing
 

You will probably need to modify the firewall to get a big block to fit in there. One day I'm going to put up 350 in mine. Pretty much A drop in motor swap.

Re: Big Block Swap For Trailer Towing
 

You do not have to modify the firewall. You just need to move the engine forward with either the '68-'71 big block engine mounts and brackets, or the '73-'87 engine mounts. The '73-'87 frame brackets from a C20/30 fit the earlier frames better than the C10 brackets.

I did not modify the firewall on my '66 Suburban, but I did fabricate some custom engine mount brackets that moved the engine forward about 2" from the original location.

Re: Big Block Swap For Trailer Towing
 

Big block fits no problem either way as long as you use factory valve covers. Larger aftermarket chrome or aluminum covers will need more clearance. I am running 454/700r4 combo.