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383 to 440 swap

2014-03-30 14.11.44.jpg.......boom, the beast is in!
 
Team,

Just as an amendment, the a/c mounting hardware and brackets are totally different on these two engine sizes.
 
...well, almost there. All that's left is the damn dip stick tube and then a start up!

2014-04-17 20.55.54.jpg
 
Engine switch is looking easy peasy, I may go the same route by year end. So the a/c mounting brackets are different, but did all the 383 pulleys work without issue? My Coronet engine switch will also include a/c. Thanks Michael.

Team,

Just as an amendment, the a/c mounting hardware and brackets are totally different on these two engine sizes.
 
Engine switch is looking easy peasy, I may go the same route by year end. So the a/c mounting brackets are different, but did all the 383 pulleys work without issue? My Coronet engine switch will also include a/c. Thanks Michael.

......make sure the water pump housing is also correct sir, and the spacer for the fan belt tension bracket. It does get a bit snug, so make sure your adjustments and fittings are done in advance of the motor being dropped in. Also, get the 2 ton hoist.
 
Ok team, so I fired her up and she runs! Runs a bit rough, but a few adjustments and we'll be getting there. I have one new issue though and that's the squeek I get on shut down. It appears to be in the water pump pulley area, and a shot of PB blaster calmed it down considerably, but I've never really run into that before an an ac car, any ideas?
 
Ok team, so I fired her up and she runs! Runs a bit rough, but a few adjustments and we'll be getting there. I have one new issue though and that's the squeek I get on shut down. It appears to be in the water pump pulley area, and a shot of PB blaster calmed it down considerably, but I've never really run into that before an an ac car, any ideas?


...easy fix. Had the Alt bracket bolted a bit goofy. But now I have the freeze plug pissing me off.
 
.....lord this sucker sounds like thunder in canyon. I had no idea how beefy 440's could be! Should've done this a few years back. I'll post a vid on here in a min
 
....got the timing chain cover off the old 383 and got a good look at what a motor looks like that's never been rebuilt. The plaque-like oil depositing was interesting, but the timing chain slack was incredible. Have a look at the pics.
2014-04-26 16.33.06.jpg
 
...they were coated in plastic?
 
Some were. Unless that's just a very heavy crust of baked on oil deposit. I can see pieces of something missing, showing clean metal on the teeth...
 
Some were. Unless that's just a very heavy crust of baked on oil deposit. I can see pieces of something missing, showing clean metal on the teeth...

On closer inspection, there is plastic on there. Never knew that!
 
Team,

The unit is in and running and a few pesky leaks are resolved.......now, ironically, the front end seems a bit higher than it was with the 383 motor in it. Really? Anyone ever put in a heavier motor but have no dip in the front end?
 
So my general observations on a 383 to 440 swap are as follows:

For an A/C motor configuration:

Differences:

1. A/C intake manifold braces are different. The two tubular braces that mount from the intake manifold to the compressor are slightly longer and there are several model years you can use as a substitute 67-71, B-A body units.

2. Stock 383 non HP cast iron manifolds bolt up to the exhaust with no major issues, other than a snug fit at near the passenger side down pipe near the torsion bar.

3. A/C rail may need a bit of a tweek to get the PCV valve clearance right the passenger side.

4. Make sure to bolt up your dip-stick tube and manifold choice prior to install if a stock look is desired.

5. Lastly, don't let your dog lay in the damn motor oil that may be with you under the sucker, and then fail to keep him from jumping in bed with your wife or significant other!
 
Team,

The unit is in and running and a few pesky leaks are resolved.......now, ironically, the front end seems a bit higher than it was with the 383 motor in it. Really? Anyone ever put in a heavier motor but have no dip in the front end?

Have you moved the car yet? It will settle into place when you roll it, after the suspension has been lifted. Just curious...
 
.....I'm scared to move it, now that everything is going so smoothly hehe. I'm taking my son over for batting practice tonight and am going to try it out then....

Here's what she looks like now...

2014-04-28 17.51.00.jpg
 
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