additional V6 to V8 swap questions
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additional V6 to V8 swap questions
I read all the comments on swapping a V6 with a V8, and I have a few additional questions. For my swap, I am replacing a 2.8L V6 and 700R4 in a 1985 Camaro with a 305 V8 and TH350 from a 1976 Camaro. I have both complete cars. Based on what I have read, I think I will remove the fuel pump from the tank and move the fuel line to connect to the mechanical pump on the V8.
1. Is it best to remove the ECM, or does it control car accessories in addition to the engine and transmission? Which wiring harness would be best to use?
2. What do I have to do to make the speedometer work with the older TH350 transmission?
3. Which power steering pump should I use? Both work fine.
4. Any suggestions with shifter and throttle cables?
5. Will I have to find a special driveshaft? I know there is a kit from B&M for mounting the TH350 in the newer car.
6. I plan to install headers while I am at it. Any suggestions on a type?
7. Before actively starting this project, I am looking for a wiring diagram for the '85 V6 car. Any suggestions?
1. Is it best to remove the ECM, or does it control car accessories in addition to the engine and transmission? Which wiring harness would be best to use?
2. What do I have to do to make the speedometer work with the older TH350 transmission?
3. Which power steering pump should I use? Both work fine.
4. Any suggestions with shifter and throttle cables?
5. Will I have to find a special driveshaft? I know there is a kit from B&M for mounting the TH350 in the newer car.
6. I plan to install headers while I am at it. Any suggestions on a type?
7. Before actively starting this project, I am looking for a wiring diagram for the '85 V6 car. Any suggestions?
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 43,187
Likes: 42
From: Littleton, CO USA
Car: 82 Berlinetta/57 Bel Air
Engine: L92/LQ4 (both w/4" stroke)
Transmission: 4L80E/4L80E
Axle/Gears: 12B-3.73/9"-3.89
Welcome aboard.
The ECM doesn't help or hurt anything. Removing it or leaving it in place won't make any difference. The best harness would probably be the '85, with some "wire stretching" to connect the essentials.
The speedometer should work by attaching the stock cable to the TH350. The drive gearing may have to be changed to match the gear ratio of the '85.
I would use the V8 PS pump, as it fits the brackets on the engine. You may need to find 3rd gen V8 hoses.
Your present shifter cable should work, although you may need to find or modify the bracket that mounts the cable to the tranny pan. For throttle cable, find one from a carb'd 3rd gen V8.
The '82-'83 3 speed automatic and 4 speed manual use the same driveshaft as the TH350 would need. Find one of those.
Shorty headers are best for ground clearance and routing. A set that includes the y-pipe are best. The emissions-compatible ones typically include the y-pipe, and those intended for the '86-'90 TPI single cat application are the best flowing. My personal favorite are the Hooker 2055's, as they have a great y-pipe.
The Haynes '82-'92 Camaro shop manual has a pretty decent wiring diagram in it.
The ECM doesn't help or hurt anything. Removing it or leaving it in place won't make any difference. The best harness would probably be the '85, with some "wire stretching" to connect the essentials.
The speedometer should work by attaching the stock cable to the TH350. The drive gearing may have to be changed to match the gear ratio of the '85.
I would use the V8 PS pump, as it fits the brackets on the engine. You may need to find 3rd gen V8 hoses.
Your present shifter cable should work, although you may need to find or modify the bracket that mounts the cable to the tranny pan. For throttle cable, find one from a carb'd 3rd gen V8.
The '82-'83 3 speed automatic and 4 speed manual use the same driveshaft as the TH350 would need. Find one of those.
Shorty headers are best for ground clearance and routing. A set that includes the y-pipe are best. The emissions-compatible ones typically include the y-pipe, and those intended for the '86-'90 TPI single cat application are the best flowing. My personal favorite are the Hooker 2055's, as they have a great y-pipe.
The Haynes '82-'92 Camaro shop manual has a pretty decent wiring diagram in it.
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