Several questions about installing a 350 Buick in a '87 V-6 Regal: 1. What front springs are needed for the engine change? I am assuming that the rear springs would not have to be changed? 2. I am also assuming that the V-6 springs and pads would be the same as used for the 350 engine? 3. Where can I find a new or used 71 350 Buick harmonic balancer? Bill
You probably wouldn't even have to change the springs. The front end will probably drop less than an inch. If you want the car to handle better get a set from a turbo V6 or a regular V8 car. They are both stiffer but it is really not necessary for regular driving. Right on rear springs. The frame brackets and motor mounts should just bolt up. Probably the driver side motor mount will be torn and need to be replaced. Check the parts for sale on the balancer or TA performance for a new one. Remember the "Search" function is your friend because this swap has been done many times before. It is fairly easy and should be almost a drop in with some wire extending necessary.
Sounds like you are on the Same Project as one of mine. I have put my 71' GS' 350 into an 86' Regal. The Motor is all in but my project is stagnant right now as I am outta work, but maybe could answer questions. My Regal had that pathetic Olds 307, so I had to use the Frame Pads out of my GS and re-drill holes for them, but it all went in really easy. The only thing that sucks is my passenger side Valve Covers rear bolts are so hard to access as the cover is so close to the Evaporator housing of my A/C, it's easier to pull that sides motor mount bolt and jack the engine up on that side. Here's some Pictures. http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k320/IMA_Nightmar/XLR8Tor%20Website/My%20Cars/Picture203.jpg http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k320/IMA_Nightmar/XLR8Tor%20Website/My%20Cars/Picture202.jpg http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k320/IMA_Nightmar/XLR8Tor%20Website/My%20Cars/Picture166.jpg
I know what you mean by tight clearance back there. I notched out my ac box in that area to add some room on my '78 455 car, the '81 350 car was tolerable. I kept the ac on both cars. You need a u-joint 3/8" socket. They have these now so when you get back on your feet look into one if you are not going to hook up the ac: http://www.acdelete.com/pages/78-88_G-Body.htm Cleans everything up and give you more room.
My front end dropped too much with the v6 springs. I used Moog 5658 in front and 5413 in the rear. This is a common spring combo I found on a turbo Buick forum. Cheaper than hotchkis, etc. The v6 frame pads work as well as the motor mounts. I would replace the mounts, though. I bought a stock 350 damper from TA Performance. You could also check the Damper Doctor.
Thanks for all the information and advice. I have been away for awhile, so am just catching up on my e-mails. I really do appreciate the information everyone offered. I will advise all of you when I make the swap later this summer. Capitol Bill
