Quote:
Originally Posted by stevensonmotors
Hello
Looking for tips and info for installing a 1988 chevy 5.7 TBI motor and 700r4into a 1959 Apache. I have a new original gauge cluster and a new original wire harness that I would like to keep do I have to keep the computer ugh 
Thanks
Bob |
Hi Bob, contracts on your '59 Apache, it's a popular model around here
To run TBI you need a computer, also called an ECU, but it doesn't need to be the GM original. Look at the aftermarket, like Holley or FAST, you can buy their ECU and adapt it to factory fuel injection. I have the Holley Avenger 550-400 kit in my truck but there are plenty of guys on the Holley EFI forum running factory TBI and MPFI applications with the Holley ECU. If you are a "roll your own" electronics DIYer you can also look at MegaSquirt.
I would recommend a new wire harness overall. Modern accessories need larger gauge wires than the stock trucks had, and you will (should) use relays for things like the horn, lights, electric fans, fuel pump, etc. and you'll probably end up cutting into that new harness. EZwire and Painless make great aftermarket harnesses and have plenty of circuits for extra goodies the stock harness didn't, plus adds a modern fusebox and uses the correct gauge wire. You will also want to upgrade your ignition system to computer controlled ignition, but you can stick HEI or similar if you prefer. I went small cap HEI and let the ECU control timing.
Just know that you will have a at least two different harnesses, one for the truck (lights, dash, gauges) one for EFI (ECU, sensors, TBI) and possibly one for the transmission depending on which model 700R4 you have.
Having done all this myself, I know it seems daunting from the outset but it's all pretty straight forward and there is plenty of info out there and in here.
Good luck and start a build thread!