i'm getting ready to do the "big swap"! Tired out old 305 for a nice fresh L98!! Before i dive in,though, i was wondering how many of you guys have done it, what all will i need, and how long did the swap take? I already have the wiring harness (MAF) with the computer, and full TPI setup with intake, TB, plenum and all the good stuff. I just need to get a long block and have some machine work done. Any pearls of wisdom would be appreiated.

thanx

 

You'll also need a throttle cable , and a kick down cable, If you don't already have them. The ones on your LO3 are too short, and have the wrong ends.
You'll will also have to change the fuel pump

I did the swap a couple years ago. I'll never go back.

 

fuel pump, fuel lines, kickdown cable, anything else?

 

O K here is a short list of stupid little things that I overlooked when I did mine. it's no fun having to stop a project in the middle to chase parts

The aforementioned throttle and kickdown cable.
brackets to mount the coil to the manifold.
Bracket for the maf sensor.
cooling fans and upper and lower fan shroud.
A bunch of new relays.
I may be forgetting one or two items, but that was a few years ago

If I knew then what I know now, I would of bought a donor wreck and robbed all the parts off it. It would have been cheaper

 

arent the relays on the wiring harness? and would the brackets be included on a take out motor?

thanx

 

I only mentioned the relays because I had to replace a couple.
The bracket for the maf sensor is mounted on the radiator support, it may not come with your motor.


Also, I'm assuming your doing this to a firebird, if you plan on using the stock intake ducting you will have to swap the battery and evap canister around which means you will need a positive battery cable for a tpi firebird (it's longer), and a long length of 3/8 hose to reconnect the evap cannister.

Hope this helps.