tell me about a big block

[mikejpss]

Greetings, I am a current owner of an 81 Corvette that I resorted frame on that included a new crate GM motor. Have lusted for some time for an 73 model with a 4 speed to restore. Question- did a big block come in a 73 model from the factory as optional equip., or was the 350 the only engine you could get?
One step further- Is there a GM crate engine (bigger than a 350) that will go in a 73 model, connect up to the original motor mounts/bell housing, etc and u can still close the hood?
Any info would be appreciated as I hope to sell the 81 soon and start looking for a rebuildable 73. thanx, mike j.

 

[67HEAVEN]

Mike,

Start here......... http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/specs/c3/1973/index.html

As for crate engines, there is always the 454 and 502, if you want big block. The 572 is a "tall" block.

 

[mikejpss]

thanx

67-thanx too much

 

[Crimson Thunder]

1974 was the last year for the 454.I believe both the small and big blocks used the same hood in 73 and 74.You would have to use the stock intake and air cleaner though.

 

[Evolution1980]

Is there a GM crate engine (bigger than a 350) that will go in a 73 model, connect up to the original motor mounts/bell housing, etc and u can still close the hood?

You should be able to go all the way to GMPP's ZZ502 without major mods. 67Heaven could tell you with more authority. But other than possible hood-clearance issues, I think it all mounts up the same. However, I believe the cars that came with a small block used different/lighter springs then their big block brethern. Of course, any time you increase the power, you need to consider everything from front to back...such as "is the current transmission up to handling the huge power increases?"

 

[mikejpss]

Thanx

Thanx, thats the answer I was looking for. My plans are to pick up a 73 model and drop in a new crate -454- with a standard tranny.
Have an 81 with an auto trans, fully stock . Now that's out the way, I'm ready for the real muscle stuff.

 

[Tom73]

Have lusted for some time for an 73 model with a 4 speed to restore. Question- did a big block come in a 73 model from the factory as optional equip., or was the 350 the only engine you could get?

Here is my '73 454/4-speed:

It is a 50K mile, three owner car

tom...

 

[mikejpss]

Why??

Tom, why did you go and do that? Posting a pic of your car for me to lust at like a jail bird looking at a Playboy pin-up !Now I wont be able to sleep at night for a few months!
Joking aside, that is one fine lil ride you go there. That is EXACTLY what I'm looking for, perhaps a different color arrangement though. I may be calling on you in the future for advice with my restore, once I find one ! Keep me in mind if you run across one that needs a new home.
Mike J.