305 454 engine and tranny swap

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Nov 5, 2013 | 11:30 AM

Vanglorious

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305 454 engine and tranny swap

I just bought a 1997 454 vortex engine and tranny. I'm going to put it in my 1979 Chevy Caprice Classic. I've dropped engines before but looking for any tips and info before I begin. I know I'll need 454 motor mounts and a stronger front and suspension for new weight of engine but any other check list must and must nots?

Dec 10, 2013 | 9:05 PM

zarajack

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You said you swapped a 454 motor into a 95 chevy that had a 305? My friend put a 454 from a 94 into my 95 that had a 350. Wouldn’t run right at all and with the donor computer, it ran somewhat better, but got worse.. also, the tranny acts like it’s in 3rd gear, won’t go to first but the engine dies, stumbles, backfires, etc, so can’t tell what’s it’s going to do for sure yet...
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Dec 26, 2013 | 3:27 PM

Blaidd Drwg

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From: Michigan

No Zara, he swapped a 97 454 into a 79. Completely different.
Vang- you will need the computer and sensor harness for the donor vehicle in order for that engine to run right unless you are carbin' it. Either way you will also need a properly pressured fuel pump for it as well. In 79 the f/p was on the engine, not in the tank of modern vehicles. The 97 truck pump is in the tank and so will not be a suitable use for your car.

Dec 28, 2013 | 11:04 AM

Vanglorious

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Big Thx for the various tips I'm on it. Its just hell trying to rent and engine hoist and have the hands to get the job done and not be paying to much when I'm on a budget. Patience is key but I'm getting disappointed in the help aka my friends.