I got a '78 skylark with a V6 231 in it. I want to either switch it with a V8 305 or 350. I have a 3 speed automatic. Is it possible i can put the 305 or 350 in? I found sites that sell '78 skylark 305 and 350s. so you would think it would be possible, right? Thanks, Darren :beer
I am biased for some reason but the 350 buick would be the cheaper way to go. when switching to the 350 chevy you have the following issues: changing motor mounts, transmission is diffrent. Wiring the motor is also diffrent. changing of drive belts and pulleys and AC if you have, it is on the wrong side. I think the 350 buick would be cheaper for the install. just my oppinion. Also what year buick 350? :beer
350 Buick Put a 383 chevy in it. It's much cheaper and easier to make power with than an SB Buick. Theres no point in being brand loyal when it comes to those late 70's cars, as they came with anything the corporate losers had to put between thier fenders. If you had an old car, like a 68, then you I'd say keep it ALL buick. Since your car is a later one (78) then it doesn't matter. To me it wouldn't anyway.
Go with a Buick 350! The swap is so easy, you can practically do it with your eyes closed. Even the motor mounts are the same, and everything bolts up. Get an older engine with a 4bbl carb, add dual exhaust and you'll be plenty happy. My friend did this to a 78 Regal v6 and the results were pretty cool.
Yeah i was thinking of the buick 350 also. I wont have to change any mounts or anything. It should snap right on. And yes i know it's a later 70's skylark and not many people care as for them as the early 70s but the buick 350 will be easier to put in and it should save me a lot of work in the long run. I'm not sure what year excately the engines are. I think the early 70's, though. Does that matter? And will my 3-speed automatic transmission be able to handle it?
Trans Your trans might be a TH-200. If this is what it is, that trans is very weak. It also may be a TH-350, or TH-375. The latter is better for handling power, as parts for a TH-350 are absolutely dirt cheap. I have a TH-350 in my car. Totally maitinence free, just top the fluid and go. Thats what everyone wants is reliability. Thanks, Kevin
the late 70's cars are coming around. it is not easy to find a cheap skylark/GS as it was 5 years ago. For eample look at my list I have a 78 as well and for the price I jumped up and down. And Last but not least it is buick powered 231 V6.
How much does a TH-350 or TH-375 cost? I'm not sure what kind of trans i got. any way i can check it? I'm kinda new with old cars and buicks all together, so i'm sorry if some of these questions are stupid.
If you have a TH350 it will probally not have the max number of clutchs in the packs. It might not hold to a healthy V8 for too long. It could be rebuilt, and the pistons machined down to fit more clutchs. Or you could get a rebuilt performance TH350 for around $700. Just make sure you get a BOP one (Buick-Oldsmobile-Pontiac). All BOP transmission have the same bolt pattern, the chevy is different. A good working TH350 can be found anywhere between $100 to $200. Sometimes less. I picked one up at a junkyard for $80 that was just pulled out of a 72 skylark. Try to get one from a big V8 car if possible. It will probally have the most clutchs. good luck.
KB did something like that to a 77 I think and it went 12s with almost no mods. Not to mention a 76 with AC weighs in at about 2900 lbs power to weight ration people. A chevy motor almost weights that of a 455. I wish I could find a good 76 and drop a new 350 aluminum head motor with some NOS and go Nova hunting:grin: Doug PS: go with the Buick motor you have all the help you need here
Tranny I suggest any 69-72 BOP TH-350. They can be made to perform with little cash outlay. Take this for example, I bought a TH-350 out of a junkyard for $90. Tore it down, valvebody was clean, clutches weren't burned up. B&M stage 3 shift kit, $32. TCI 3000 stall converter, $200 at a swap meet. Total invested, $322 and some change. Performs flawlessly, and barks the tires on pavement through first, AND second! Can't lose, Try it. From Kevin
