Engine Swap

While the 283 small block that came with the Chev had some poke, I wanted to use the engine and tranny from the Prem as it's a crate motor Gen II 350 small block, and will be a better foundation for any future modifications.

The transmissions and shifters were swapped as well although both were Turbo 400's. The Chev now has the B&M Quicksilver while the Prem has the B&M Megashifter.

I had to track down new sumps for both motors, as the original small block and the Gen II have the dipsticks on different sides.

Rod Hadfield from Castlemaine HotRod had a small block sump and pickup to fit the HT crossmember.

Eagle Auto Spares in Dandenong supplied the Gen II sump. This is the place where I bought the Gen II back in 1999, it was the Quicksilver crate motor.

These are the two engines side by side, ready for their new homes. The Gen II is on the left.

Geoff and the guys down at Knoxfield Automotive (03 9801 8283) in Wantirna South did most of the hard work. These guys do a real professional job. 

They also let me use a hoist for a couple of days so I could clean and spray the underbody of the Chev. I reckon I got a wheel barrow load of dirt and crap from underneath!

After 2.5 solid days cleaning and painting, there's still the wheel wells and other bits to paint. Now I appreciate the effort the show guys go to. 

Mission accomplished, although I still have to clean up the wiring, change some hoses, get a thermo fan, replace the leads...

I'm really pleased with the results, the HT now has this very tough sounding and quick motor while the Chev is a lot smoother and quieter while cruising but still has the nice grumble at idle.

The plumbing for fuel, water and spark required a bit of attention and decided to paint the fan and pulley for the hell of it.



Improvements when I have the money include:

• heat coated extractors
  
• paint/polish the water pump
  
• new valve covers
  
• relocate the alternator and bracket