SBC Serpentine setup

[tscott9330]

I want to put a serpentine belt system on my 406, but I dont want to drop $2000 dollars to do it. My question, is will any of the factory setups from any late model chevys fit an older block, or is there a cheaper alternative to jegs or summit?

Tom

 

[Chuck-75]

Im not sure if theres a fit problem,between the older blocks and the newer blocks?, Ive got a new crate engine and just recieved the GM serpetine kit. The wiring for the Alt. is easy to convert to the newer plug(go to PACE parts and theres an explination on how to do it), the hoses for the PS pump needs a new hose end because the new pump is metric threds,(a local shop did mine), also the new A/C compressor,hose ends will need a new hose addapter. leave the plug in the back of the compressor because the low press. sensor on C-3s is located in the Hose the newer comp. has it in the back of the comp. the kit includes a new reverse flow water pump. and you have to use it. its a long neck type. also you need at least 8 Inchs of room to clear the front of the engine. I went with a new Alum. Rad. with Elec. fans. Ive heard of others that have done this ,so it should work... I dont think theres any diff in the bolt patern of the engine..by the way it cost about $750.00 for the kit. and included all the bolts.
Save the wave

 

[Twin_Turbo]

I know someone who put an F-body serpentine system on his C3....from what I recall he had to do a little trimming here & there but nothing too bad.

 

[bossvette]

I am going to use a serp system the F body looks like it will work, but the machinist I use told me to try a 4.3 van system is the same and a whole lot cheaper at the junkyards. I have one for my Yellow truck project from a F body that I paid $89 from E-bay and another $40 for the missing crank pulley at Carlisle (Corvette pulley). Just be sure to get everything from the same donor car/van.
Craig sr.

 

[tscott9330]

Thanks guys,
Sounds like that should be easy to find on ebay. Any other thoughts out there in TV land?

Tom

 

[cptkirk32]

http://www.corvettefaq.com/redir.asp?site=802
Try this link, "poor mans" set up. Might give you some ideas.
SGT Kirk

 

[tscott9330]

Ok, So to change to a serpentine setup, what will need to be changed accessory wise? will I need to run a newer style P/S pump, and will I be able to use the newer ac compressor required for a vintage air system?

any info will help

Tom

 

[AKRAY4PLAY]

i put a March set-up on mine a couple years ago. it ran $550 from Summit Racing. a little more expensive than a transplant GM system, but looks a whole lot better. the P/S cap can be a pain to remove though, other than that it uses all your existing accs. i talked to the tech guy at Summit, and he found a "street ratio" set. slightly under drive P/S and slightly overdrive water pump with normal alt and A/C speed. it was not listed online or in the catalogs.

 

[tscott9330]

Which A/C pump do you have? Is it the origional equipment one or is it one of the newer ones that is compatable with the vintage air system?

Thanks Tom

P.S. Do you remember the part number from your March pulleys?

 

[AKRAY4PLAY]

it was a replacement pully on the old original A/C pump. i didn't use the A/C part, living in Alaska you just need to roll the window down for cool air. sorry i can't find the part number anywhere. give Summit or March a call, they should be able to get you a better idea of exactly what you need. sorry i can't be more help right now. Brian .

 

[Jack]

This little tidbit MIGHT end up helping those that don't need ac, or their ac is locked up ... but their car runs a serpentine belt. Dorman markets a line of brackets & pulleys that are designed to emulate a factory ac comp-clutch-pulley. So ... you could remove your ac comp ... replace with the Dorman assembly ... and reinstall your serp belt. More or less ... the Dorman assembly replaces the ac comp with an idler. Dorman makes lots of OE replacement-type stuff & is widely sold at local auto parts stores.
JACK:gap