need help with motor modifications
 

ive got a 1979 454bb paired with a th400 tranny that i plan on putting in my 66 gmc half ton, I want to put headers, aftermarket intake, distributor and a decent carb on it i just dont know what to get or what i should be looking for. im not a motorhead by any means so i have no clue where to start. im just looking for something i can cruise around in that is reliable with a bit of jam. not looking to spend thousands either, i hope you guys can help shed some light on the subject and point me in the right direction. i appreciate everyones input. TIA :chevy:

Re: need help with motor modifications
 

First thing I would do is a leak down on the engine. That tells you a bit of the condition of the engine. I used chevelle headers when I put a 396 in my 64. A dual plane intake and a holley 670 street avenger would work. A comp cams high engery series 268 would work well.
Jimmy

Re: need help with motor modifications
 

Header thread for big blocks in our trucks - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=309453

Re: need help with motor modifications
 

I would do the leakdown like Jimmy says first and if it passes muster I would move on by pulling the hood off and lowering the motor into the engine bay, tranny and all if I could. Then I'd rough out the tilt of the whole combo as it relates to the differential pinion angle. This lets clearances in critical areas be checked out. Places like valve covers to firewall, distributor to firewall. Fan to radiator. Bellhousing to floor. Also you can scheme a bit on things like....How will the hoses go? Where will the motor mounts go? What kind of mods will be needed to the wiring harness? How will the exhaust shape up? Will the fan center nicely with the radiator, and will the cooling system be adequate? Also the the carb linkage and driveshaft will need consideration. What about the transmission tailshaft mount? Will a tranny cooler be needed?
Mocking it up first will help you get a list started of all these odds and ends and more. Then you can start doing the math on some of the expenses and get a fuller idea of what's involved. I'm sure others who've done this can offer great insight and shortcuts, but just be sure you don't wind up being bogged down by the unexpected.