Engine Question

[Quietstorm843]

Hello everyone. I'm new to the board and had a few questions. I have a 1979 Delta 88 coupe that has a pontiac 301 in it. I just wanted to know if it was possible to swap out the 301 for something better like a 350, and if I could what would I have to do to get it to fit? Thanks in advanced.

[J-(Chicago)]

A 4.9 2 barrel car!? I forgot all about those. I think under 20% of the 79's had that motor.

As far as your question goes, are you looking to put in another Pontiac motor?
It would be the easiest, and you can order rebuilt ones for probably around $1200.

You must first decide which make motor that you want to use, because all of their motor mounts are different. Also alternator wiring, and transmission lines could be on the wrong side and need to be redone depending on which one you would like to go with.

A W72 Pontiac 400
Delta 88 would be pretty cool

[desert442]

I'd go with a Rocket 350. Parts are plentiful and affordable. That and you can build it as mild or wild as your taste and budget will allow. That, and it will make your olds "all" olds, JMHO.

[GoldOlds]

Welcome to the site. I don't blame you for wanting to ditch the 301. Going from a 301 to a bigger Pontiac motor MIGHT not be as easy as you might think. When it comes to the old "did Pontiac make a big block AND a small block?" debate, the people who say "yes, they made both" win because of the 267 and 301 (prior to '77, Pontiac only had one block). I'm not sure how the small block to big block swap works for Pontiac (it's harder than you'd think for Buick, but not a big problem for Olds and Chevy). If such a switch IS more labour intensive, you may as well go "all Olds" as someone already suggested and nab a sbo 350 or 403. At least you know your tranny will fit, unless you go Chevy.

- GoldOlds

[Quietstorm843]

Yeah its the 4.9 2 barrel version. I'm thinking that I might just go with the oldsmobile 350. Thanks for the replys.

[joe_padavano]

Originally Posted by Quietstorm843

Yeah its the 4.9 2 barrel version. I'm thinking that I might just go with the oldsmobile 350. Thanks for the replys.

I would agree, but be aware that you'll need to change the frame brackets, motor mounts, starter, and all the accessory brackets since Olds and Pontiac motors are different. The good news is that the frame brackets and motor mounts from any 77-90 Olds-motored full size will work. The bad news is that access to the bolts that hold the frame brackets to the crossmember is very difficult with the lower control arms in place.

Yes, your trans will bolt to the Olds 350, but if it's a TH200, don't expect a long and happy life.

[Olds64]

That is a nice car. 78 and 79 were good years for the Delta 88 coupes. I especially like the Holiday 88s.

[mowerkid1]

Originally Posted by desert442

I'd go with a Rocket 350. Parts are plentiful and affordable. That and you can build it as mild or wild as your taste and budget will allow. That, and it will make your olds "all" olds, JMHO.

hey you said that the parts are plentiful i need to find some valve springs for my rocket 350. any suggestions?

[Redog]

I would think the frame mounting would be pretty easy, just get motor mounts for a 1979 Delta 88 with an Olds motor.