i am going to change my 350 2 bbl in my 71 skylark to a 71 455. i know i ned to change the mounts but do i have to change the coils to or are the ones there strong enough for the extra wieght?thakns
I think it would depend on how fresh they are, thought it might be a good measure to get some new ones. I've currently got Hotchkis small block springs in the front of my car (2bbl 350 powered) and with me sitting on the hood (thats 275lbs, folks), it doesn't sag too much... it actually makes the car sit the way it should to me. I would change out the front springs just for safety measure, but I don't figure its absolutely neccesary since there are people running V6 springs in the front of 460 powered 5.0 Mustangs.
Here is something to ponder. When I did this swap, I also changed the intake manifold. The Edelbrock Performer weighs around 10 lbs. My 73 455 factory intake weighed 72 lbs. So you could save 60+ lbs right there. That almost negates the 455 vs 350 weight differences. Headers are lighter than iron manifolds as well. So there are choices..... Just remember to toss the 2-piece Skylark driveshaft as the 455 will spin the rubber sleeve, leaving you with a nice walk home.... Russ Waters 1970 Skylark Convertible 455
You could just run coil over shocks for a tad more support. Easy to install and you can use them cheap $20 add-on coil over at the auto store. I have used them a few time in the rear and they work great. Matt uzzled:
