Hello everyone. I am new to the boards and I am also a virgin engine swapper. I have a 1982 Pontiac Firebird S/E that came with the factory V8 engine and 4bbl carb. I would like my first engine swap to be as painless as possible.

Does anyone have any ideas for engines that would increase my horsepower and torque as well as being an easy fit?

 

Welcome aboard thirdgen.org.

Simple would be a 350 with a shortblock from the '80-'85 timeframe. Passenger side dipstick and 2-piece rear main seal. Your 305 heads are better than a lot of factory 350 heads, so consider having them freshened up and just putting them on the 350 shortblock.

Exhaust upgrades are a must - headers, 3" y-pipe, cat, and cat-back.

More details would require more information from you - intended use, goals, emissions requirements, budget, etc.

 

Right now I want to get this car up and running for street driving in CA. I would like to see how much I can get done with about a grand. If I am being unrealistic let me know.

 

For a grand, I would do a full exhaust upgrade with headers (Edelbrock is the only outfit making headers with EFE valve capability, which they're going to look for in CA - get the L69 version), aftermarket cat and cat-back for L69; and a cam upgrade. A very nice increase in power while remaining smog-friendly.

Leave the engine swap for later when budget allows.

 

Thanks for the tip.

For what years were the headers on the V8s interchangeable? I am pretty sure my V8 is not the L69 but if I could use that version that would be a great quick (and relatively easy) upgrade.