ok guys i have a very good chance in getting my dads old corvette motor its a carb 350 70s era...i was wondering what all would i need to change the carb to TPI (just the intake up..? or heads aswell?) and if i do use this engine and use tpi(or stealth,super, w/e) should i get some aluminum corvette heads?..this will go inplace of my v6(3.1 92')...so i know i need springs, tranny(t-56), mounts, Computer, v8-tach stuff, install torsen in rear,complete exhaust. i think i can use my radiator, and anybody else want to chime in? thanx.

 

When was the last time this engine was rebuilt, if ever? Odds are you may want to change more than just the intake, at least if its stock. The 70s era vettes were pretty crappy performers. I would definately want to put the newer style head on it. More than likely the old 350 has dished pistons, to aid it in achieving that awesome 8.5:1 compression ratio. Perhaps a nice set of 305 TPI heads would work, putting the compression in a much more suited range. Maybe some aftermarket heads, if the budget allows. They are getting cheaper and cheaper every day. A cam swap included and it could be a good running engine. Of course, as long as it has the TPI on top, it still has certain limitations.

 

The engine has about 10,000 miles on it. it was rebuilt and i dont know whats all been done. i'd guess from the get up the vette has it makes around 230 or so hp. it sounds like it has a mild cam in it right now. when we take it out ill have to look into the compression, pistons, heads(stock or not). we got the vette from a guy who got it from a guy who died. we know the engine was rebuilt to where it has around 10,000 on it. but the specs are unknow. looked up the block numbers and it appears to be an 80 or 70 model. not sure. so yea, definately gonna have to tear it down and find out what it has.

 

does the stealthram or superram come with its own computer?

 

The Stealthram is available with or without the computer. However, it is not emissions legal with their computer.

The cam is critical with EFI. You need to know what you've got.

 

yea i understand i was just wondering if would have to switch over to a v8ecm or not. . if i run a carb setup can i used my existing v6 tachs?

 

With a resistor change, yes.

Don't know the details, I just used the donor V8 car's tach.

 

ok well when we pull the engine out of the vette...hopefully nextweekend ill be able to tear into the engine and see whats goin on with it. its like a mystery engine

 

one more question...is it easier to go with a carb setup or a EFI one. just wondering, does EFI get for MPG than a carb setup? i know horsepwer and fuel economy dont mix but im just wondering

 

Emissions inspection and/or testing required?

If yes, only one answer - EFI.

If no, carb easier and cheaper, but economy reduced.

 

thanks alot your a big help looks like im goin efi