Well, here's my story. Me and my dad purchased an 89 RS with the 305 TBI and the 4 speed auto transmission. We got this as a project car. The body is in good condition except for the paint. The engine and trans on the other hand are not. The engine leaks water everywhere, many seals are bad, and a bunch of other stuff is bad. It runs if you keep adding water and stuff, but not great. The trans has problems, and needs a rebuild. What me and my dad would like to do is swap a carbureted 350 in for the 305. What we dont know and would like to know is this:

1. What parts are needed to drop the 350 in. (We know about motor mounts and stuff, but we are looking for some specific stuff needed.)
2. Can the stock transmission bolt up to a 350? (stock for us was a 4 speed auto)
3. Can the 305 be built to match a 350 for the same price or less?
4. What is a decent price for a crate 350 that is moderately built?

Thanks,
Andrew

 

For the 350 swap you will need a few things handy. Most importantly would be the ECM. Your car now uses the '8746 series ECM. You could probably use this ECM again but you will need a custom PROM-(chip). Search on the engine swap boards.

The motor mounts are the same for 305 and 350 engines. Yes, your 700r4 tranny will bolt up with no problems.

You ever heard theres no replacement for displacement? Ditch the 305 and get a 350. You be glad you did.

And if you looking for a crate motor, I'd say 2500-3000 bucks, turn key engine.

 

Look on the TBI forum. What is needed to get a 350 to work in an original 305 car is discussed in the stickies there.

#4 is too ill-defined to provide a usable answer. "Moderately built" will mean different things to different people.

 

thank you both for the replys. We really want to swap a 350 in, but budget will be the deciding factor. Thanks again.