About to start my restoration project for my 89 v6 RS. Lookin at either a 350 or small block 400. Let me know what you think.

 

Well, I don't think you can restore an RS with a 350 or 400. They only came with a V6 or 305.

But, if you want to put a 350 or 400 in a factory V6 car, I think you should start by reading the V6 to V8 swap sticky in the top section of this forum, if you haven't already.

 

I have read that forum and we deffinitely plan on using a donor v8 car that we have found for sale for only a few hundred dollars, that being said I do realize problems can come up with putting that big of an engine in. Were doing a full restoration however so any changes needed im sure we will be able to accomodate.

 

The swap is no different than any other SBC swap

 

Subframe connectors, poly suspension bushings, upgrades to the rear end really help these cars. But, that's the case whether it came from the factory with a V6 or a V8.

(In case it didn't register, to "restore" the car would mean returning it to from-the-factory condition, which can only be accomplished with a V6 in your case. You are "fixing up" and "upgrading" your car, it sounds like, rather than "restoring" it. Some might say I'm splitting hairs, but words should mean something.)

 

Yeah, what 57 said!!!! Restoring a car means all that numbers matching, stock wheels, correct window crank BS!!!!

Call what you're doing upgrading, hot rodding, or some other more accurate term....

Restoring is boring, Hot Rods are where it's at!!!!

 

I hear the term "restification" used a lot for overhauls to non-factory condition.

I also like the idea of "period correct" restoration which is to return a vehicle to the condition it would have seen street duty in, in its heyday. Doesn't really apply hear though.

To address the original poster, given the choice between a 400 and a 350 i would go with the 400. The larger bore allows heads to breathe at their optimum. Installation of either is in a nutshell the same.

 

an eng. swap like you talk would not be restoration . it would be an up-grade . would be a fun car to drive , go for it . keep checking the different threads on this forum . there is a wealth of information . ( also a little bit of B/S. ) . just sort through it all , use what you need . good luck .