Hi I Have a 85 Pontiac Transam Tpi that i just dropped a 87 firebird 350 crate engine into and im having some slight problems. It runs good unless I ride street for more than 10 min and then she gets up to 220-230 degrees. I have a 185 degree thermostat, new stock radiator, im not loosin coolant, and i just got the system flushed. Do you think the waterpump is to blame. The fan turns on a little after 220 and shuts off a little before 220. Im clue less. Also I have another question to all the real mechanics out there. What original 305 parts do i need to change to help upgrade and benefit my 350's performance. I dont feel like im getn the torque and raw horse power I should be gettn ,like something is holding me back. I heard I need to change the 305 fuel injectors to 350 injectors is this true. Any help is highly appreciate.
thanks

Caine

 

^ I answered this in the Street Racing forum for you....

This is very common when switching something, and/or exposing the coolant system to allow air entry. With then engine cold, pull the radiator cap off, and start the car. Don't worry, the coolant will not spew out. Once the car is started, turn your heater controls ON, and let the engine idle for approximately 5-10 minutes. Your going to need to get some additional antifreeze coolant, as you will be adding it to your radiator until the system is adequately full. When no more bubbles are prevalent in your coolant (through careful observation), put the radiator cap back on, and your good to go. If the problem persists, do the very process again. If it still persists, you might just have yourself a sticky thermostat....

In referecne to the 305/350 swap, you need to install 24-lb fuel injectors, as well as getting your hands on a properly calibrated prom (chip). Focus on the injectors for now, and before you purchase a new chip, consider going with an entirely new ECM. The '85 ECM leaves a lot left to be desired....


-Gaspar