400ci Swap

The original engine for the car was wrapped in a few chains and sitting in front of the body that’s hanging from the rafters.

YS

A-Body

1966

389ci

335hp

Powerglide

1×4bbl

Block Cast 9778789

2 Blot Main

GTO

The engine sat outside for awhile at some point and had water in the head and in a couple cylinders.

This block, .60 over, would require sleeve installation to salvage it.

This is a Tri-power setup from a 1965 GTO. The center carburetor features a small base, unlike the later units which would all be the same size by 1966. It has been idle for some time and exhibits indications of being disassembled several times in the past.

After cleaning, blowing out, taping, and painting, it’s much closer to being ready to run.

All carburetors have been rebuilt, adjusted to factory specifications, and are prepared for engine installation.

Y9

F-body

1975 (July 26th)

400ci

185hp

4-speed

RPO L-78

1×4bbl

Block Cast 481988

2 Bolt Main

Heads 6X

8

2.11/1.66

100.04cc

This excellent Craigslist find comes into play here. It was rebuilt a few years ago, carefully wrapped, and is just waiting to be installed in a car. While it may not match the original powerhouse, it offers significant cost savings and keeps the project moving forward.

Connecting rods at 0.10 / Main bearings at 0.10, with a .030 thrust. Dating back to 9-7-92, perhaps it spent more than just a couple of years on the shelf? Following inspection and cleaning, the oil pan underwent sandblasting before being sealed. A fresh coat of Krylon/Dupli-Color DE-1610 Pontiac (1959-1965) blue paint was applied (utilizing old spark plugs for painting). There was no rust present, and everything appears to be in excellent condition. After building up the oil pressure, it will be started with a shot of Marvel Mystery Oil in the cylinders.

The TH400 transmission was securely bolted on, and the engine was carefully positioned within the frame. Assembly is progressing as components are being bolted together, and the tri-power setup looks impressive sitting atop the engine!

The chassis is beginning to take shape once more. Although modifications are required for the cross-member, it should be much improved as it bolts into the frame, unlike the original setup where it merely rested on the rails with the weight of the engine and transmission. Previously, it was only attached to the transmission mount without any additional support.

The cross-member was adapted from the Chevelle, whereas the original GTO cross-member wasn’t intended to be bolted to the frame. Instead, the original design allowed it to float on the frame rails, supporting the weight of the engine and transmission.

I removed the plate from the Chevelle cross-member, cleaned it thoroughly, adapted the plate for this specific application, and then welded it back together.

At least now the cross-member will be securely bolted to the frame.

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