The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop modifications to '54 3600

Hey, folks!

New to the forum here, and have a few questions about some plans I have for a '54 3600 I just bought.

I have a '83 Chevy conversion van equipped with a 350/700R4 that I am not interested in keeping. My thoughts are to install the engine/tranny/rear/front suspension from the 3/4T van over to the '54. Haven't done any measurements, yet, just in the dreaming stage.

Any experienced modifiers out there have any red flags to throw out there for me?

Tim

The 700R4 has a lockup torque converter, so be sure and include the wiring to apply the converter clutch. The early models used a vacuum switch and an internal switch in the transmission to provide lockup at the correct manifold vacuum and speed, while later models used a computer circuit and the throttle position sensor to accomplish the lock/unlock cycle. Your 85 should have the vacuum switch system if it's carbureted. If the engine has the electronic-controlled Quadrajet carburetor, it's wise to switch to an earlier model carb without the computer controls for your application. Stay away from the Holley carb conversion most people would reccomend. The Q-jet is a better carburetor, and it's designed to work with your engine. The Holley is a "will-fit" conversion, and probably won't be calibrated for best performance and economy.
Jerry