Hello. I'm in los Angeles and I have a nice s15 that had a fried motor and trans. I've got an uncle that has a really nice running Buick 350 engine and trans for a good deal. I know a SBC will fit as I have already mocked a 305 and th350 using trans dapt plates using clamshell mounts. My question is will the Buick fit without going crazy? I've already bought the plates and mounts so investment is low. I like the idea of the Buick and it's all running. Any input? Thanks.
Well for one, the sbb 350 has a much taller deck height than a sbc so hood clearance could be an issue it that even concerns you with this cool swap. Then there is trying to get exhaust to fit, if you're capable custom headers would work well. Other than the above mentioned concerns I don't know what's stopping you? Throw some aluminum on top and you have an engine lighter than the 4.3L that came out of there!! Is it in yet? GL Derek
The taller deck is not a deal breaker so long that the bell housings are the same. The exhaust and the motor mounts are the main issue. A Buick 350 would be killer. And I've worked on this truck before and and the motor is great. Right now the 305 Chevy bare block is in it just to mock the mounts and set up. But I already have the SBC formula. But the Buick would be sweet.
Well, you're going to need to do some custom work and welding to get the motor mounts in there. The bell housing for a Buick is different than a sbc bolt pattern but they make very affordable adapters to bolt a chevy trans to a Buick engine. I just posted a link for one for someone else a few days ago for one. Derek
Not sure what an S15 is, but if it was manufactured in '76 or later, it is subject to having the emissions equipment intact, and a biennial inspection. Unless you know someone who will falsify a SMOG inspection for you. I know I wouldn't, back in the day.
S15 is a GMC S10. I'll be getting the sbb and trans together. The smog thing is something I'll address later.