lturner3 wrote:
Hey guys, I was offered a 4.3l out of a Buick that was then put into a boat and has now been sitting in a garage for 5 years. I've had and worked on my luv for 5 years now but I have a bent connecting rod and is no longer driveable. I've always wanted to do a swap but I don't know much about the 4.3. So does anyone have any tips on what I should do to the engine before I attempt to put in? Also if anyone knows what kind of headers would work on it that would be awesome. Lastly I wanted to put a 5 or 6 speed manual in so I was wondering which transmission would be best for that and if I'd have to change the gearing in the back.
Is the 4.3L the Buick design or Chevy? I would be very cautious of any engine used in a boat application. Check it out very carefully for rust in the block and passages, etc.
Hooker had a mounting kit for the Buick engine. At one time they also had headers for it. You should be able to use the PowerByAce 700R4 trans mount for the T-5.
PBA has a mounting kit for the Chevy 4.3L and T-5 transmission. Also headers.
Engine mods run the gauntlet, just how fast do you want to go. How much money do you have.
76 LUV w/ 4 speed should have a 4:10 rear end and with the over drive 5th gear should go nicely. There is an higher ration that was used w/ the automatics, 3.64 I believe. Unless you make banzai runs all the time the stock rear will work for quite a few years.