I have a 1984 Firebird that I just pulled the sickly LG4(what a POS) out of. I am planning a build up based on the -85 GM goodwrench crate. If you don't know it it's the $1300 crate available from SDPC. I plan on adding Vortec heads, Edelbrock Performer intake, Demon carb, and MSD ignition. Now is it alright if I don't run a ECM for this project? Will it soem how mess up the 700-R4 or anything else for that matter?

Thanks

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"Damn son is that thing really a Firebird?"

1984 Firebird that is in little teeny tiny peices on my garage floor.

 

Well with that setup you basically can't run the ECM anyway since the carb you're calling for isn't computer-controlled. So you need a complete other non-computer-controlled distributor (MSD sells those too, and so do many others, or you can build yourself one) and some way to lock up the torque converter clutch if that matters to you. Somebody makes a switch you can put on your shifter handle to engage it.

Other than that, and the possibility of not passing emissions inspection, everything will be fine without it.

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"So many Mustangs, so little time..."
ICON Motorsports

 

ummm oh yeah emmisions....oh well I'll just hope for a little luck with that.

Thanks

Also how about the gauges am I going to need something to make the speedo work? I was really looking to get soem kind of digital gauge set. Would it be possible for me to just hook up sending units from a new digital cluster to make everything work properly or am I gonna get myself messed up?

 

The 84 has a cable driven speedo, so thats no worry.
The vortec heads have a different bolt pattern, so since you are going carb order the vortec specific intake manifold.

The aftermarket digital stuff comes with senders and stuff to hook it up if its any good, or they will charge you extra for what you need. In any case, you need to contact them about it.

 

TCI has a vacuum lockup switch for the 700r4. Just run manifold vac to it and wire it into the plug. I think it locks up in 4th when vacuum is 8"Hg or higher.

 

when u swap distributors, try one from a parts store or one of those summit hei's.
i had an old distributor and i did all the work myself and it cost almost as much as a new one. and that was with just decent quality parts

 

I plan on all new componantes for the engine. I want to do this once so I gotta do it right. Thanks