My lil 2.8 finally threw a rod through the oil pan so I'm thinking of putting in a v8. I would like to keep my mechanical clutch because I'll be busy with the new eng and tranny but the problem is the z-bar screws dirrectly into the rear drivers side of the block. Does anyone know what engines will acomidate the z-bar and fit in an 83 firebird and where to get it? Also any suggestions for the swap would be greatly appreciated as I am new the the v8 world.

 

Most small blocks have a tapped boss for this cross bar. Trouble you'll have is the 2.8 bellhousing won't fit a V8. The V8 is quite a bit wider than the 2.8 so the Z bar will be too long or won't work there either. Then a 2.8 tranny won't fit up to a V8 engine and housing. Best to find a complete engine and trans unit and go from there I think. Note that the 83 was the only year for a five speed with the rod operated clutch too.