Joined
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186 Posts
Hello,
I've got an '82 El Camino with a busted '305 in my yard... I've been tossing back and forth what to do with it exactly... but I'd really like to put a diesel into it.
My question is: What would be necessary to drop the factory-optioned 5.7L into my Elk? (asuming it had its accessories: exhaust manifolds, alternator, etc)
My transmission does have the dual bolt-pattern, so the olds engine should bolt right to that. I found a place I can get the diesels motor mounts, asuming the mounts attatch to the same place on the frame as the small block. I should be able to re-use my fuel tank and lines, as long as I clean them properly, right?
What about the front suspension? I know the engine weighs an extra hundred pounds or so. Is it just a matter of putting in the heavier coil springs? Or would ball joints and such be necessary as well?
I know the 5.7L has a bad rep, but I know the '81+ ones were much more reliable than the early, disastrous version. And with a few simple modifications, the engine can be made very reliable.
I also understand the lack of power produced by the engines... at 125hp, and 225ft/lbs, it's not going to set any records. I've got my '66 Toronado if I wanna go fast
I've done alot of research on what can be done with the engines if you sit and tinker with them... and you can actually build them up pretty well, and even throw a turbo on it if you build it right. All kinds of info on how to build them up here: http://a350diesel.tripod.com/v8-1.html
I found an engine on Craigslist, and I'm going to go take a look at it. I know to check the cyl heads for cracking between the intake and exhaust. But I'm trying to figure out how much I need to buy besides the engine to see if it is worth the trouble. Otherwise I'm going to be waiting untill I buy my parts car for my Toro, and use the spare 425
I know there are alot of strong arguments on the logic of this idea (and some good ones too, admittedly). But I really just want to know what would be necessary, so I can make my own judgement on the matter.
Thanks.
I've got an '82 El Camino with a busted '305 in my yard... I've been tossing back and forth what to do with it exactly... but I'd really like to put a diesel into it.
My question is: What would be necessary to drop the factory-optioned 5.7L into my Elk? (asuming it had its accessories: exhaust manifolds, alternator, etc)
My transmission does have the dual bolt-pattern, so the olds engine should bolt right to that. I found a place I can get the diesels motor mounts, asuming the mounts attatch to the same place on the frame as the small block. I should be able to re-use my fuel tank and lines, as long as I clean them properly, right?
What about the front suspension? I know the engine weighs an extra hundred pounds or so. Is it just a matter of putting in the heavier coil springs? Or would ball joints and such be necessary as well?
I know the 5.7L has a bad rep, but I know the '81+ ones were much more reliable than the early, disastrous version. And with a few simple modifications, the engine can be made very reliable.
I also understand the lack of power produced by the engines... at 125hp, and 225ft/lbs, it's not going to set any records. I've got my '66 Toronado if I wanna go fast
I've done alot of research on what can be done with the engines if you sit and tinker with them... and you can actually build them up pretty well, and even throw a turbo on it if you build it right. All kinds of info on how to build them up here: http://a350diesel.tripod.com/v8-1.html
I found an engine on Craigslist, and I'm going to go take a look at it. I know to check the cyl heads for cracking between the intake and exhaust. But I'm trying to figure out how much I need to buy besides the engine to see if it is worth the trouble. Otherwise I'm going to be waiting untill I buy my parts car for my Toro, and use the spare 425
I know there are alot of strong arguments on the logic of this idea (and some good ones too, admittedly). But I really just want to know what would be necessary, so I can make my own judgement on the matter.
Thanks.