Taking a 2.8 back to basics

[Zandoz]

For openers I'm a newbie not only to the site, but to 60 degree V6s. This is my first project after a 30+ year brake from being a gearhead...and then most of my experience was with early 70s and before stuff.

What I have is a 2.8 , 200-4r, and computer removed as a unit from an 89 Camaro...including A/C & PS. What I want to do is build a very simple T Bucket/Modified hot rod. Toward that end, I need to take the engine back to basics...remove the A/C, PS, EGR, heater lines, and anything else not essential to the engine running well. Also, if possible, I'd like to relocate the alternator to make the whole engine package as narrow as possible.

To be honest, I do not have a clue where to start. Any advice on dos and don'ts would be greatly appreciated. Also, is there any good reference material out there for this engine?

[Superdave]

If it's out of an 89 Camaro then it's a 700R4 trans.


For what you're doing this is the place to go; http://www.britishcarconversions.com/

He's got accessory relocation brackets and all kinds of stuff that you can use.



If you really want to go back to the basics that's a very easy engine to put a carb on, Edelbrock makes a nice intake manifold for the iron heads as well as chrome valve covers. I'm sure the iron head guys could chime in with more details on that.

good luck and welcome to 60v6!

[Zandoz]

I went out and looked, and you're right...it is a 700R4. The guy I bought it from should have known better, but it actually makes what I want to do easier...not much stuff like transmission mount cross members out there for the 200-4R.

Converting from MPFI to carb will be a last resort. I'd like to keep the MPFI if at all possible. Thanks for the link.

[Superdave]

cool, EFI is more fun anyways.


I used Marc's alternator relocation bracket on mine, it tucks it in nicely on the drivers side. You can see it here: http://www.sdsgarage.com/Misc/Camaro/Misc/SDC12698.JPG


it would be similar for an iron head engine.

[Zandoz]

That is exactly what I'm looking for! I'm not familiar with Marc. How can I make contact?

[Superdave]

http://www.britishcarconversions.com/c-us

[Zandoz]

Got it. Thanks.

Now for another question...is it possible to turn around a driver's side exhaust manifold and use it on the passenger side? The way the stock passenger side manifold exits to the rear is going to be a problem.

[Superdave]

Yep, that'll work.

[Zandoz]

Cool! Thanks again.

[geoffinbc]

If you got an S-10 alternator bracket you could have just the alternator and tensioner on one bracket and of course you would include the water pump in the belt routing. You will have to convert to a standard rotation pump or simply use an idler pulley to get the belt wrap required to turn the pump. It would be preferable to use a serp belt but going to V-Belts is an option depending on the look you want.

Chrome or Fiero covers will dress up the look. The Fiero covers are cast aluminum and much more solid. Plus they have a reusable silicone gasket which is not prone to leaks like the tin covers.

There is no reason you cannot keep the MPFI. I am sure everyone on here will encourage it. If your after an old school look then TBI offers the perks of EFI with looks very similar to a carb.

[Zandoz]

Which side of the engine does the S-10 bracket put the alternator? Does it mount it tucked in closer to the engine? I need to get it lower and closer. The BCC bracket appears to do what I need, but I'm always open to considering less expensive ways of doing things.

I've already started looking for a set of the Fiero valve covers. I really like the looks of them, but right now they are low on the priority list.

I'm really not that concerned right now about a period look, or any kind of dress-up or performance mods. I'm literally going to be building this little T-Bucket/Modified from the ground up, and it's going to be a mix of unconventional parts. My first priority is getting it built to the point of being a roller if not being drivable. If I make it that far, then I'll start looking at looks, performance, and period mods.

[geoffinbc]

It pretty much mounts the alternator slightly on top of the passenger side valve cover.