Putting a 454 in a 350 car

[try2pas]

I have someone that will sell me a rebuilt 454 cheap. I understand that it will hook up to everything that hooks up to the 350 now. This is a '72 with an auto trany. How much "other stuff" do I have to buy or run down that will make everything on the new 454 work? Like is the alternator or power steering on a different side etc? If I did do this should a guy try to price out a pair of aluminum ZZ454 heads or is this way to pricy for what you'd be getting? Any other dos and don'ts for putting a 454 in a 350 car?

 

[Bob Heine]

Mine came with a 454 so I can't tell you exactly what needs changing but most of the trouble is on the front of the engine or nearby.

Big blocks put out a lot of heat so you may have to upgrade your radiator. If you want the thing to look stock, you might have to replace the radiator support and get a big block shroud -- or just get the Dewitts big block conversion radiator and electric fans.

If you want to use the stock accessory brackets, you'll need the special Corvette big block water pump or nothing will line up. If you already have brackets from another vehicle, they may work but you may have to do some bracket fabrication or modification.

Several people have done the conversion and used a serpentine setup from a small block. Hope this helps

 

[Hib Halverson]

Among other things you'll need:

Big block front springs
Rear stabilizer bar
All big-block cooling system parts
Big Block alternator and power steering brackets
Big Block exhaust system

While all C3s from that period use the TH400, there may have been differences internally between SBV8 versions and BBV8 versions. The differences in parts are to address durability.

Also, depending on what platform this 454 came from, you may need a Corvette intake manifold.

If this 454 is from a 75 or later truck, you'll need Corvette heads.

 

[6880 Mike]

Purchase the 72 assembly instruction manual (AIM) and take a look at what was required for the factory installation of the big block. The AIM has useful diagrams of the installation and lists the parts and parts numbers of what you're going to need.

 

[Crimson Thunder]

I would definitely go with the aluminum heads if you can afford them. It will take a good bit of weight off the front of the car.