v6 to v8 convert
01-12-2006, 02:03 PM
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v6 to v8 convert hey you all know i been looking forward to doing this. The one big problem I am haveing right now is my bank will not let me. Once my car is paid off, i hope to have anuf money to start this project. here some good info i have found.
Q. How hard would it be to convert my V6 to a V8? What is some the basic things I need to be aware of when swapping engines?
A. If you are going to keep the computer system it will be more trouble and something that we aren't going to get into here.
New Engine will be computer controlled:
To make it much easier we suggest going to a junkyard or finding someone who is parting out a V8 Camaro or Firebird and pulling as much as possible off it. Especially the computer and wiring harness.
New Engine will be carburated:
A good non-computer controlled distributor.
You will need brackets for the alternator, AC, smog pump (if you want to reinstall it), and power steering pump. Be sure to save all the bolts you can along with AC hoses, and pulleys. You will also need new motor mounts (to the frame) and the engine side brackets that these mounts bolt to. If you are getting used mounts make sure you get the engine side motor mount brackets from a Camaro or Firebird as they are a little shallower and are needed to get the engine to sit low enough in the bay. The holes for the motor mounts should already be in the stock k-frame. You will also need to get the engine fan and fan shroud from either a junkyard or new. You will also need the following: starter, water pump, and probably a power steering pump. All of which can be acquired from a junkyard and possibly from where you got the donor engine. You'll need a V8 HEI distributor, plugs and wires. An ACCEL rebuilt HEI works great too. That is unless you are going TPI then you will need the TPI distributor and sensors and computer. If your Camaro has an automatic tranny you will need a new transmission since the bellhousing bolt pattern is different on the V8 car from the 4 and 6 cylinders. A Turbo 350 will bolt right in with B&M's conversion kit which allows you to hook up the torque arm but no overdrive. Take a digital camera with you when you go to the junkyard to help you figure all this stuff out. One other thing to think about is the front coil springs. You will probably have to change them too as the V8 will be heavier. It is a lot of work there is no doubt about it. It can also get very expensive especially if mistakes are made so planning is the key to both saving time and saving money. If someone has done this and we have left something important out please send us an email and let us know.
Q. How hard would it be to convert my V6 to a V8? What is some the basic things I need to be aware of when swapping engines?
A. If you are going to keep the computer system it will be more trouble and something that we aren't going to get into here.
New Engine will be computer controlled:
To make it much easier we suggest going to a junkyard or finding someone who is parting out a V8 Camaro or Firebird and pulling as much as possible off it. Especially the computer and wiring harness.
New Engine will be carburated:
A good non-computer controlled distributor.
You will need brackets for the alternator, AC, smog pump (if you want to reinstall it), and power steering pump. Be sure to save all the bolts you can along with AC hoses, and pulleys. You will also need new motor mounts (to the frame) and the engine side brackets that these mounts bolt to. If you are getting used mounts make sure you get the engine side motor mount brackets from a Camaro or Firebird as they are a little shallower and are needed to get the engine to sit low enough in the bay. The holes for the motor mounts should already be in the stock k-frame. You will also need to get the engine fan and fan shroud from either a junkyard or new. You will also need the following: starter, water pump, and probably a power steering pump. All of which can be acquired from a junkyard and possibly from where you got the donor engine. You'll need a V8 HEI distributor, plugs and wires. An ACCEL rebuilt HEI works great too. That is unless you are going TPI then you will need the TPI distributor and sensors and computer. If your Camaro has an automatic tranny you will need a new transmission since the bellhousing bolt pattern is different on the V8 car from the 4 and 6 cylinders. A Turbo 350 will bolt right in with B&M's conversion kit which allows you to hook up the torque arm but no overdrive. Take a digital camera with you when you go to the junkyard to help you figure all this stuff out. One other thing to think about is the front coil springs. You will probably have to change them too as the V8 will be heavier. It is a lot of work there is no doubt about it. It can also get very expensive especially if mistakes are made so planning is the key to both saving time and saving money. If someone has done this and we have left something important out please send us an email and let us know.
01-12-2006, 02:04 PM
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yes this is going to be vary expensive, but it still cheeper then buying a brand new car. Since i am going to be buying a brand new block it be like haveing a new car.
01-13-2006, 11:47 AM
#5
Man I don't think you know what you're getting yourself into at this point. Although doing a lt1 to ls1 conversion wasn't that difficult, doing a v6 to ls1 you have to switch practically everything from fuel system to wireing to dash guages and everything in between. Sell your v6 and pick up an ls1 car period. Find one for $6K and be done with it. You'll have at least that much tied up in parts doing the swap.
01-13-2006, 12:36 PM
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Originally Posted by 93formto98T/A
Man I don't think you know what you're getting yourself into at this point. Although doing a lt1 to ls1 conversion wasn't that difficult, doing a v6 to ls1 you have to switch practically everything from fuel system to wireing to dash guages and everything in between. Sell your v6 and pick up an ls1 car period. Find one for $6K and be done with it. You'll have at least that much tied up in parts doing the swap.
I hope even maby when the new 2009 camaro comes out, some people will be tradeing in there old camaros. with luck i may be able to pick up a nvy blue ss camaro.
the goal here is to make my dream car. Right now i can tear down a jet engine and put it back together easy. I do not know jack about a car engine, if i do the sawp it be a great way to learn.
01-13-2006, 03:22 PM
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If you are mechanically inclined it should not be as difficult for you. It is alot of work but i plan on doing the same thing with an IROC. The difference between me and you is that i paid 200 for my car. 
if you have put alot of money in your car already then i suggest you try to find a nice deal.
i have a question though...Do you have to put a carbereutor (sp?) on? what are the advantages and disadvantages of having a carbed engine?
if you have put alot of money in your car already then i suggest you try to find a nice deal.i have a question though...Do you have to put a carbereutor (sp?) on? what are the advantages and disadvantages of having a carbed engine?
