Engine Swap or Rebuild

[MI6]

Just bought a 71 Satellite with a Slant 6. Drove the car home ok but when I checked the vacuum at idle it was only 14 or so warmed up and about 18-19 cold. I've been debating whether to swap in a 360 or 383 or just rebuild the 6. This is my first Mopar so I'm not familiar with engine swaps, what would be needed to get a v8 installed?

Suggestions and advice appreciated.

 

[69 Runner]

Isn't that hard, but you'll need the motor, trans, and probably a stronger rear. You can use the K frame that's in it and use Schumacher mounts. Then it's just exhaust and wiring for the most part.

 

[Patrick]

Being a B body it has a 81/4 rear so that want be a problem. My sons 72 440 4 speed car had over 800,000 miles on it when he parked it. And other than a couple pinion and axle seals it never caused a problem.

 

[MI6]

Thanks for the info. I was wondering if the K member had to be changed. Sounds like the V8 swap would be almost as easy as fixing the /6.

The car has, I believe, an 8-3/4 rear axle, the one without the removable rear cover. From what I've read so far it should hold up.

Since I don't have a V8 I'll have to round one up. If I go with the small block is there any advantage/disadvantage to using a magnum engine vs a LA?

 

[69 Runner]

You don't have to swap the K if you use Schumaker mounts