3800 II in an older RWD body?

[gui_tarzan]

I know the Camaro/Firebird is RWD so theoretically it should work. But there's the problem with wiring, computers, etc.

Does anyone know anyone that has successfully done this???

[Loyd]

From the GN T-Type list in 2002


Since the question has been asked on the list several times, yes, you can use an FWD engine in a Regal, but as far as I'm concerned, there's no sane reason for doing so. The supply of rebuildable 3.8s doesn't seem to be a problem for the forseeable future. But if you insisted on using an FWD engine, you'd need:

* a 700R4 from an S-10 or F-body
* whatever needs to be done for the shifter, front yoke, driveshaft, trans mount, and TV cable
* a modified oil pan (the FWD one is full-length like a marine pan)
* a handful of metric bolts

Additional selected highlights from that post about 80s 3.8 FWD engines


The FWD version of the Buick 3.8 is only 16.5 inches across the back. The bolt pattern is the same as the "corporate V6" 60 degree pattern used on the 2.8, 3.1, and the Quad 4. The 2.8 was used in RWD configuration in the S-10 pickup and the F-body with the T5 or 700R4. The starter is moved to the driver's side, tucked up and in. As far as I can tell, the narrower oil pan was due to the use of the small FWD ring gear; they had to tuck the starter closer to engage the teeth.

The FWD 3.8 had the gerotor oil pump in the timing cover, which is *very* short - shorter than the '80 3.0 FWD timing cover, which is shorter than a Regal cover, and uses V-belts. The '86 cover uses a serpentine setup like the Regal, but the offsets are all wrong, and so are the brackets.

The accessory bolt holes in the heads are in the same positions as the RWD Regal heads, BUT the threads are metric. The intake threads are inch. This mixed thread stuff sucks.

The RWD heads will bolt right up to the FWD block, and vice versa. The turbo Regal intake manifold bolts right up on the FWD block and heads.

The Regal motor mounts will bolt up. There are some extra holes for the FWD bracketry too. The mount holes (and the bellhousing threads) are METRIC. The oil pan holes, etc., are INCH. The engine is about half an half, and some of the thread pitches are close enough to cross-thread the wrong bolts in if you aren't careful

[76century]

I know that the 3800 series 2 engine, since in front wheel drive cars, sits sideways in the engine bay, and I don't know all the technical details about it, but I would imagine that you would have to be able to turn it around correctly to sit in a RWD car. Maybe if you did put it in an older car, you might just have to end up converting the drivetrain itself into a Front Wheel Drive platform instead of using the RWD setup, because I am not so sure of what all you'd have to do. It may not be worth doing, but I know if you have the time, money and skill to pull something off like this, then it would be a very fun challenge for the taking! :bglasses:

[GSXMEN]

You might also visit www.l67swap.com for some other ideas.

[CTX-SLPR]

There is a G-body Cutlass out there with an L67 and 4L60E. I've also run across a guy with a turbo L36 and 4L60E in an S-10. The hard part is getting the oil pan to clear everything and fabricating them motor mounts. You'd also need a high pressure fuel system.

[diver]

If you are talking about a RWD 3800 II (Camero type) I saw where a fella put one with 5 speed into a TR7, nice fit. Lots of wires and hoses going this way and that way, but, he said it really gets the looks when it runs.
Diver

[sbrmd]

How could one get ahold of the S-10 owner, any idea?

Very interested to learn about that one....

Thanks in advance,
Steve.

[CTX-SLPR]

I'll let you know when I do, since I'm building a Grand National hardware based motor with L36 electronics to turbo and install in my Riv.

[Page2171]

I have been thinking that a 62 Skylark would be nice if powered by a L67 and 4L60E. Now, if I just had a 62 Skylark...

[gui_tarzan]

I have had some strange ideas since owning newer GMs while never losing my love for the old Buicks. I'd like to have a '64 body with the chassis, running gear and interior from my 2000 LeSabre. I know, I know... but it would be cool! But ultimately I love how strong the 3800s run and how dependable they are, not to mention the mileage they get and would love to be able to run one in a '64.

[Greg]

Try this out:

http://www.3800pro.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10998

Greg