Hey Scotty! I have a 1984 Chevette with 80k original miles. I was thinking of doing an engine swap. What would be the best route for an engine and transmission options?
- 1984 Chevette
- old man tan color
- PLAID seat!
LS V8's are the most common swap people do. They have the most amount of resources, parts, and information available on the web.
But if it were me I'd use the engine that's already there and has only 80k on it.
Are you planning on taking it to the drag strip?
Welcome new member. I didn't realize there were any running and driving Chevette's left. @mmj is probably right about LS, at least as far as part availability goes. But 2 thoughts:
1) Chevette's are not robust, and the chassis was definitely not engineered for a heavier or more powerful engine. Any engine upgrade will also require upgrades to transmission, differential, axles, suspension, wheels and tires to be drivable and safe.
2) Is a hopped up Chevette really what you want? If it only has 80k original miles, maybe do a light restoration and resell it (it probably has some collectible value). Then use the proceeds to buy the project car you want (even if that might be another, higher milage, Chevette).
If you want old school with a carb, just a rebuilt 350 or something, you can do alot with them. Probably easier to drop in.
If you want modern, an LS (or cast iron block out of a Silverado/Yukon, etc). You can get alot of power cheap out of them, or set it up to be a nice mild cruiser. If you want a manual I think a T56 would be best, but idk exactly what that will & wont bolt to. For auto *I think* youd be looking at a 4l60e (kinda weak), and I think the 4L80e's can handle more torque. Alot of performance shops know how to rebuild them for more power. Do your research there.
What are your goals with the car?
