318 to 440

[cowboy4x4n]

guys ive looked extensively on here reading posts about swaps.  I believe I have a 904 trans and 8 1/4 rear with a numbers match 318 in a 69 charger.  I did get a free complete 76 440 out of a powerwagon that ran and works great.  ive always wanted a big block but the more research im doing its pretty extensive to swap and costly.  other than torsion bars, trans and rear with driveline shortening; i believe i need to rewire the big block and use a new radiator.  Am I missing anything.  The cost I believe I will endure almost seems worth it to do a stroker 408 with 430 hp and the big block torque.  what does everyone think

[cowboy4x4n]

Any ideas guys

[myk]

I bet the cost of a well-built engine would equal the cost of getting the needed 727 and rear end needed for your swap.  What else could there be?  Motor mounts?  A new radiator?  I'd say that the suspension pieces aren't even "critical."  You could probably drive the car around with its 318/base suspension until you can get the heavier duty components.   Wiring?  Look at any engine compartment diagram and there isn't THAT much of a difference between the motors. 

A stroked and poked smaller engine makes better sense for efficiency's sake, but if we're talking about a muscle car a bulky, nose dive inducing, gas swallowing, giant cubic inch big block is the only way to go...

[greenpigs]

That and if you build a strong SB the 8 1/4 rear should be replaced anyways.

So start looking for an 8 3/4 rear because either way you go that will be needed.

[cowboy4x4n]

Oh I agree thr rear will be replaced.  Just the motor delema.  I enjoy taking mine on long drives.  My no kidding 22 mpg is loved.  what is a mild 440 get.  And yes gas money is a problem due to the economy I'm tired of my pay cuts LOL

[andben]

Lucky you. I live in Sweden, drives a 440 and gas is $9. (its of course worth it!). And taxes is huge 

[greenpigs]

Oh I agree thr rear will be replaced.  Just the motor delema.  I enjoy taking mine on long drives.  My no kidding 22 mpg is loved.  what is a mild 440 get.  And yes gas money is a problem due to the economy I'm tired of my pay cuts LOL

Well that is a BIG dunno!

I would  guess for the highway with 3.23 gears your going to get 13 mpg, if your lucky.

[Paul G]

Oh I agree thr rear will be replaced.  Just the motor delema.  I enjoy taking mine on long drives.  My no kidding 22 mpg is loved.  what is a mild 440 get.  And yes gas money is a problem due to the economy I'm tired of my pay cuts LOL

Well that is a BIG dunno!

I would  guess for the highway with 3.23 gears your going to get 13 mpg, if your lucky.

I would say 8 to 10 MPG with the 440. Some might claim higher numbers than that. But to get those higher numbers you have to drive it like granny's car. So what is the point then.

[cowboy4x4n]

True.  In still enjoying driving it on long vacations so I might crate the 440 till I'm ready.  I'm just excited to drive a 43 year year old car with 22mph.  To think I almost bought a new camaro pshhh.  I believe the rear is really tall in gear so ill leave it be.  Just wanted for giddy up to back the muscle car name