Hey all,

The 305 TPI in my 1988 Iroc that I just bought has developed a pretty loud rod knock. I have a 1985 TPI engine sitting around that is in decent shape. Instead of rebuilding the 1988 305 engine, I am going to swap in the 1985 305 engine block and install the 1988 TPI setup onto it. However, would it be easier to install the engine with the transmission sitting in the car? Or is it easier to mount the transmission to the engine out of the engine bay on some stands? The transmission is a 700R4. Thanks everybody, this is my first engine swap.

 

With a big heavy long awkward auto trans especially, I always find it easier to handle them separately. But it depends greatly on the tools (hoist etc.) you have available, your space, and such as that. If you have a REAL BIG cherry-picker that can go pretty high, and the car is on ground you can roll it, it might be OK the other way.

 

I do it both ways, depending on the trans. Autos I prefer to leave in the car when possible, manuals I pull them together. It's way too much of a PITA to line up the input shaft with the clutch disc with the trans in the car.

Don't forget your 85 flexplate won't fit your 88 engine's crank.

 

OK, thanks guys. Looks like I will be taking out the engine separately.
@92RS_Ttop: I am keeping the 1988 transmission in the 1988 Iroc and just swapping in the 1985 block, so I need to use the 1985 flex plate? Thanks.

 

Yes. The 85 motor will have a 2 piece rear main seal, the 88 will have a 1 piece seal. The crank flange is different between the two. Once you get them next to each other you will see the difference.

 

 

Thanks guys for all your help. I will be putting the 1988 heads, intake manifold, and TPI setup on to the 1985 block,will that work? Or are the 1988 heads and intake manifold not compatible with a 1985 block? I see no reason why they wouldn't work, but you guys have more knowledge on these engines than me.

 

The heads and intake will swap. I found it easier when I pulled my engine to drop the trans crossmember and let the tailshaft down, you can access the bellhousing bolts much easier than with the trans up. So... I guess IMHO its easier to do it separately.

 

Thanks guys for all your help, will be removing the engine soon.