hey guys im new around here. im a senior in high school and a total gearhead. i bought my 90' firebird (3.1 automatic) during my junior year for next to nothing (sat for 10 years). story short i have now replaced just about everything (brake lines, fuel pump, water pump, etc). well ive driven the car for awhile now and the 3.1 just isnt cutting it anymore. it runs strong but obviously has little to no power. the real handy thing is that my dad was a mechanic for 20some years and raced sprint cars for a few as well. he has many projects and engines the garage and well, earlier this year he promised me an engine for my car...a 406! haha as you can tell im excited. for a 16 year old senior in highschool i know A LOT about cars so im not just some clueless teenager asking dumb questions. but i would like some input from you guys about anything to do with swapping in that 406. i have big plans for the motor in the future (procharger kit, etc.) but would like some pointers on what to save cash for to get the thing in and running. as of right now it looks like its going in this spring so the main part of the engine build will be this winter. so far im looking at going with a t56 6 speed tranny but im not sure on any other aspect of this swap. so any input would be greatly appreciated

 

I'm assuming this is going to be a carbed setup if so you have a cake walk swap on your hands...First I would track down a set of factory service manuals makes things go a lot smoother on cleaning out what 3.1 stuff you don't need. And as for your drivetrain I would start searching the classifieds for a complete T56 swap? If you end up with some questions or want some advice I might be of a little help, been into the f-bodies since I was your age. You'll just keep loving these cars...nothing drives better til you step into a Vette!

BEST OF LUCK!

 

Welcome aboard thirdgen.org.

For the basics of the V6 to V8 swap, read the V6 to V8 swap sticky in the top section of this forum.

Details depend upon induction, transmission, usage, etc.

The LT1 T56 would be the easiest to swap in. You will need a special flywheel.

 

yea for right now it will be carbed until i get enough cash for a fuel injection setup. i hope it is a cake walk haha