First off, great site.

I have an 83 Cutlass Supreme, 3.8L v6 and my goal is to upgrade to a 5.0 or more. I was wondering if anyone on here did it or knows someone that has done this. What will I need and what parts can I salvage from the v6 application?

 

The 5.0 L engine is generally used to refer to the Ford 302. Oldsmobile offered a 5.1 L engine that was actually a 307. You can find a 307 in practically any 80s or early 90s Cutlass (as long as it has a V8), Delta 88, 98, or Custom Cruiser. However, most people here will tell you that for a mild performance build you will be much happier with a 350 or 403. Externally, there is no difference between the 307, 350, and 403 (besides color).

I suggest you find an Olds 350. These can be found in 70s Oldsmobiles like the Cutlass and Delta 88. The good thing about Oldsmobile engines is that your car will be a perfect fit for an Olds 350. The biggest obstacle will be upgrading your transmission. Currently, your car probably has a 200 4R, 4 speed automatic. These are good transmissions; however, it might have to be beefed up to withstand the output of a mildly built 350.

 

That 3.8 is a Buick motor. You could drop a Buick 350 right onto those mounts in your car.

If you wanted to convert to Oldsmobile powered, you would need to get new frame mounts off of a donor car that had an oldsmobile engine in it. Also would have to re route the transmission lines and some wiring.

 

Yeah, it was built by Buick, so does that mean I'm limited to Buick motors only? A chevy motor wouldn't work?

 

A Chevy would work if you found the Chevy frame and engine mounts from an 80's monte carlo. Again, you will have to re route some stuff,
AND.... get a new transmission with a Chevy bolt pattern. Buick/olds trans wont work

 

you should definently go olds or buick, it will cost more, but you will be happier in the long run

 

Would a 350 from a 70 Skylark drop right in there?