So i finally got completely sick and tired of my old, beat up, dogged out, crappy 305 TBI. I had been working with my uncle and his race team for a while and he suprises me with a already built 350 bored .060 over and a 400 crank. So if i did it right thats a 388. I had also collected a TPI system off of an IROC. So me and him are going to do the swap.

So i came here to ask a few questions so i wouldnt seem totally clueless during our swap. Ive done a few but nothing this substantial. Im trying to make sure i have everything covered.

oh and btw this is a street/strip car. Not a daily driver but i would like it to be tolerable on the streets.

1. I know i will need a chip burned
2. Is a new Torque Converter necessary or could the old one make due?
3. Ive got a fuel pump for the TPI and new fuel lines
4. SFC are also bieng put on

Now i know ive forgotten a wealth of stuff. Ive read through a couple of threads but nothing really has to do much with 388 although im assuming w/e goes for a 350/383 can go with the 388.

Sorry about the long post, its a backyard mechanic trying not to seem so stupid around his expert uncle.

thanks in advance

 

Uncles can be nice things to have around.

What year and engine did the TPI come off of?

The torque converter really depends upon the cam you have in the engine.

TPI will really limit that big of an engine.

You're right, most everything that applies to a 350 swap would apply to this. No significant difference between 383 and 388.

 

the TPI system actually came off a 1990 IROC. Just curious, but why would the TPI limit the system? lack of air flow etc?

I know almost nothing about TPI ive been reading all the stickies on their board to see what i can pick up?

Also what do you guys think will be a good cam for the motor? something nice for street, strip..Low-mid range power..? Hopefully after i find my dream cam i can contact someone from a shop to help with the TC.

also, my uncles was telling me something about a wiring harness i didnt have. any guesses?

 

Yes, TPI is flow limited. You can improve it, but to make it adequate for a 388 you're going to basically have to replace all of the TPI hardware.

You're probably missing the ECM harness, but you'd be better off asking him.

 

any updates on your swap?

 

slight highjack, do you have to update the fuel system for a 383? is it intensive?