If I was doing this change over, I would use a big block chev motor(400, 427, 454, 502} mainly because parts are much cheaper. Engine mounts are available and headers are available for the bigblock chev in the after market. You might consider a small block chev with some horsepower (400+ hp) so extensive steering and handling rework would not be required. I am happy with my 300 HP 350 crate motor. It has enough power for an old retired drag racer. Keeping a chev motor would probably add more value to the car when you want to sell.
Word of "warning" here on your T5 trans. swap. Don't put too much HP through it!!! They won't hold up, even the W/C model!! you have to 'granny shift" or it will "Grenade" all over the road!!! Syncros are weak in them & the shifter forks too!!! If you want to power shift it or "side step the clutch at 5 grand or better" This is not the transmission to use!!! I was going to use one of these in the torpedo back but had a transmission fellow advise me "not to do it" so I bought the "bullet" & got a Tremec T 500 & Love it, can BEAT on IT all day long.
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Some times I wake up GRUMPY, but today I let her sleep in !!!!!!!!BLACKSTOCK Ont.
ultra cool.......easy swap.......go like heck........
ran that setup in a 63 Vette but with 411's and did it fly......
stay away from the 389......too many headaches for your 57 Canadian Poncho and parts not readily available here........and more $$ than a 327 and more weight
348/409 is good but steering usually has to be altered and that adds about 150 lbs to your front end so you better have p/s......
cheers Bernie
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......big block, 4 speed, bench seat, it doesn't get much better
long abandoned the idea of the 389 when I learned of how much modification was needed. I just recently got ahold of a more correct 283 and have it painted properly to suit the car. I've posted pics in the "members rides" section. There's also plans for paint and interior soonish, I'll post pictures as my progress comes along
'64 Parisienne CS "barn find" - last on the road in '86 ... Owner Protection Plan booklet, original paint, original near-mint aqua interior, original aqua GM floor mats, original 283, factory posi, and original rust.
