VERY important question about a BBC in a '56 pickup
 

Here's my conundrum...

My 1956 chevy was clipped in 1997, adding a 1979 Trans Am / Z28 front end. we then test fit everything with the motor and tranny we intended to install: a 454 bbc and a 4 speed muncie. Here's the catch: we didn't test fit it with exhaust manifolds / headers on the motor. Now, I'm seeing people modifying their motor mounts and firewalls to get such a powertrain to fit.

So here's my question: will I be able to find headers / exhaust manifolds that fit my motor and front end without having to modify my motor mounts and firewall?

Help! This problem could set the project back even longer!

Re: VERY important question about a BBC in a '56 pickup
 

I am guessing that you shouldn't have any problems. You might try a set of headers from a 70ish camaro. I don't think the subframe changed very much from 70-81. You might have to move the motor a little to clear the firewall but I don't think that will be that big of a deal. Where did the motor fall in referance to the orginal mounting holes on the camaro clip?

Bernie

Re: VERY important question about a BBC in a '56 pickup
 

Here are a couple pictures of the motor mount holes we had to drill. The mounts for the big block sit further up the subframe than the original SBC mounts. We had to cut an access hole on the driver's side similar to the one alread there on the passenger's side in order to tighten down the mounts...

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n...l/P1010474.jpg

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n...l/P1010475.jpg

Re: VERY important question about a BBC in a '56 pickup
 

PGF,

You think something like this:

http://www.centuryperformance.com/de...uct_ID=SDH-BB2

Pricey, but if it means i don't have to cut my firewall...

Re: VERY important question about a BBC in a '56 pickup
 

Those look ok, You might have to play with the motor placement still but if you have come this far you shouldn't have any problems with that:metal: . You might also look into big block mounts to see what the differance is. I can't remember right now but I was thinking that chevy added the extra 2" to the front of the motor but from the mount location to the bellhousing flange was the same. If I can find my book I will look.

Bernie

Re: VERY important question about a BBC in a '56 pickup
 

I'm pretty sure the extra length is on the front side of the motor as well...

Re: VERY important question about a BBC in a '56 pickup
 

Camaro had BBC's in 70-72 or so. Headers for a 72 should work fine.
There is also another option for headers. You could get fenderwell
exit headers for 55-57 Chevy car. They should go on the outside
of the frame. I have seen them on a 1959 half ton with a Nova
sub-frame, and they were cool.