http://www.crateenginedepot.com

try a GM goodwrench 350 crate..
you can put in the 290hp engine with no worries about the car.
By the way, I live 6 miles from you...

-Etar
('77 Stingray)

Hello Ted,

    First off, thanks for sending some rain down our way.  Until today we
only had 1.64 inches for the whole winter season!  Right now the cars
are hiding indoors and outdoors we have a nice soaking rain.

    To the best of my knowledge you are correct.  I believe that you will
be tested to the specs for the newer of either of the VIN or engine.  It
would be best to make an appointment and go to the nearest BAR Referee
Station and ask there.  Get Xerox copies of any California ARB/BAR
regulations that they cite and ask if there are any forthcoming changes
that they know of -- so you don't get the job done and get caught in a
Catch-22.  Most BAR people I've met are pretty closed mouth about what
might pass and what might not.  If you find the right person, his or her
advice can be a real help.  ("Bureau" is the operative word here.)  But,
it never hurts to ask.  Ask particularly about the differences in the
Catalytic Converter on the '80 (if it's a California car) and what might
be needed on the engine you choose.

    Looks like you're in the Bay area.  In SoCal the phone book listing is:
State of Califonia, Automotive Repair, Bureau of   1-800-952-5210.  You
might check the SBC blue pages in SFRAN or San Jose for a local number.
   
    There's probably a sweet spot between electronic complexity,
transmission compatibility, HP and what will physically fit without
significant body work.  It's probably been done before so there should
be some experience here or on Corvette Forum.

    I've had one friend do this with a Pontiac and he had SMOG problems due
to the rear end ratio.  He changed the gears and and it passed.  Usually
there's enough "free play" in the required numbers that passing the
actual test is no strain.  The tough part is usually the visual
inspection and BAR might advise you on what they will be checking for.

    Another resource is a local speed shop; however, their help might not
include advising you on the virtues of an L98 versus LT-1 versus LT-4,
particularly if you are using an automatic instead of the 4-speed.

    Best of luck with the swap-out.

try GM goodwrench 350 replacement engines...
heres a link i recommend

http://www.crateenginedepot.com

by the way, I live just about 6 miles from you...

ETar
('77 Stingray)

http://www.crateenginedepot.com

try a GM goodwrench 350 crate..
you can put in the 290hp engine with no worries about the car.
By the way, I live 6 miles from you...

-Etar
('77 Stingray)