BBC install questions...

[BK'66Step]

So I might be picking up a 454 from a guy for $60 bucks. It seems like a good deal, but I've never really thought about putting a big block in one of these. I have a 1966 2wd GMC Stepside that is currently engineless... Is there any helpful insight about what I might be getting myself into if I decide to do this? Particularly engine mounts, tranny suggestions, other upgrades that might need to be done. Thanks a bunch in advance!!

[1963c-10]

First questions are auto or manual trans? 2nd question is wheter you want long tube headers, block huggers or factory cast iron. As far as the engine mounts, you can use the 2nd gen (67-72) mounts or use the 63-66 6cyl mounts w/large pads. I personally am going w/tubular mounts from CPP. The question on the trans and exhaust kinda go hand in hand. If running a manual trans, the mechanical clutch linkage will present some clearance issues. I have decided to convert to a hydraulic clutch to omit the factory linkage which will then allow me to run headers. (using 67-72 BBC c-10 headers). The rest is pretty straight forward and you will have plenty of room. If you have the deluxe heater, you may encounter issues w/removing the pass valve cover. This can be solved by installing an economy heater from a 63-66 in the cab, which will also open up more enigine bay room. If any more questions, please throw them at us. There are several here doing the conversion and a few that have already done it. Look in the "projects/build" threads at the top of the 60-66 page...if you scroll threw them, you will find a few, and most guys will be glad to respond.

[BK'66Step]

I will definitely take a look at the build threads! I was thinking I would probably want a manual transmission but that's not set in stone. If I found a good deal on a TH400 i would be happy with that too. My plan with the motor would be to put aluminum heads, mild/mod cam, and long tube headers. If I did run an auto trans, I could run headers w/o issue?

As for the motor mounts, I couldn't find any on CPP but I did find a thread about some tubular mount brackets from Performance Online that seem to work pretty well.

Thanks for the input!

[Chevy Fleetside]

This is what I did. You can use the front holes and bring the engine forward, you don't have to go the extrememe that I went to. http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=259536

[BK'66Step]

Hey thats a sweet looking build! Is it kind of one of those things where you won't really know how exactly its going to mount up until you try and put it in there? Seems like there is some discrepancy on where you put the mount bolts and whether or not you need to mod the frame a little bit.

[Chevy Fleetside]

You have to trim the top rail a bit. Most guys just use the later model mounts and you still have to trim the upper part of the frame rail.

[BK'66Step]

http://www.performanceonline.com/196...RACKETS-18818/

These are the mounts I found. I was curious as to the year range, but it says they bolt right on and don't mention anything about modifying the frame. Doesn't seem like a big deal either way, I was just curious...

[BK'66Step]

Now that I look at the picture they give it does look like they notched the frame a little bit.... lol.

[Chevy Fleetside]

do a search for BB builds and you will find alot more.

[Captainfab]

Regardless of which motor mounts you decide to use, the top flange of the frame needs to be trimmed for exhaust clearance, be it manifolds or headers. If you want a manual trans, I recommend converting to a hydraulic clutch. There is currently another thread with another member installing a 454 in his '63 with a 4 speed. His thread title is about a bellhousing question.

The big block question gets asked every few weeks, so there are quite a few threads on the subject.

[RockTonka]

I found set of headers for a chevelle that fit tight to the block and actually had quite a bit of clearance without trimming any of the frame (our burb build)