Engine Swap- what else to do?

[BIGEARL]

Howdy guys, I'm getting ready for an engine swap in about a month and since I'll have the front clip off again I was wondering if you guys had any thoughts on other items to tackle during the down time. I'll be going from an old 350 to a fresh 383, I've already put a 4 core rad in and will be replacing the front wiring harnesses and motor mounts. The plan is to go with an internally regulated harness, and tackle as much as I can in preperation for a TBI retro this winter...

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

Thanks, Nate

 

[3 on the tree]

New heater core, blower, fan and the speed control. Otherwise, you have to unbolt the pass side hood hinge, and inner fender, when the heater core starts to leak.

 

[BIGEARL]

Great idea, I didn't think about the heater core. Much obliged for the heads up!!

Nate

 

[Greg72]

Clean up the firewall and front frame rails while it's all apart. A little bit of Eastwood's Chassis Black would really make the frame sparkle again.

There's nothing worse than the look of a shiny new motor in a filthy old engine bay. Spend a couple hours cleaning and degreasing while access to everything is easy. It will make the new motor a lot more fun to work on too...and will help you locate any new leaks or issues (if there are any).

I'd also replace the motor mounts and tranny mounts with fresh stuff...avoid the temptation to re-use what's there. Even bad mounts "look" good.


This is a perfect example of "Might As Well".....btw.

 

[Yukon Jack]

This is a perfect example of "Might As Well".....btw.

Heed Greg's advice, he knows what he preaches.

I gotta agree now is a great time to get that firewall cleaned up and hit it with some fresh black paint. Give your wiring harness a good inspection and replace or repair any problem areas.

 

[BIGEARL]

Good points guys, I figured the "might as well" mind set would take over sooner or later....I just hope my 3 week project doesn't turn in to a 3 month plus extravaganza...

I owe it to the K5 to do her up nice.

thanks fellas, Nate

 

[ChefBear]

I did all new March acessories and it made it nice and easy, electric fan, etc etc

Doh, and my best new favorite place in the free world, the grade 8 by the pound fastener bin at the local hardware store. $30 and you are styled!

 

[sponsoredbydad]

350 to 383 do you already have a 400 trans or are you hooking up to a 350? I'm getting to do the same only the 383 I put together is stroked.

 

[BIGEARL]

For the short term the old TH350 will have to deal with the 400ft lbs of torque. Ultimately I'll be going with a built 700r4. I don't intend to do any extreme wheeling with this rig, mostly just camping, a few moderate trails, and some desert runs. The OD will come in handy as will the 3.06 first gear.

Nate

Nate