1970 C10 SB 350 to BB 396 Swap
 

Bought a '67 396 BB for my C10, is it necessary to change my front springs? What other possible hurdles do I face?

Re: 1970 C10 SB 350 to BB 396 Swap
 

It will lower it and its up to you if you want to change them.


Cooling will be the big one.

Re: 1970 C10 SB 350 to BB 396 Swap
 

Was also thinking of swapping my TH350 for a Richmond T-10 4 speed. Anybody else try this before? Will that tranny hold up to the 396 that will be installed?

Re: 1970 C10 SB 350 to BB 396 Swap
 

Factory 1/2 ton big blocks came with stock 3/4 ton front springs to carry the extra weight. I used new stock 3/4 springs and cut 1/2 of a coil off to get the height I wanted (along with 2 1/2" drop spindles) and still retain the strength.
You'll also need a 4 row radiator as been mentioned and if you haven't upgraded your front brakes to disk I would do that too. Engine stands are different also.

Re: 1970 C10 SB 350 to BB 396 Swap
 

I imagine you will need all different accessory brackets too. Power steering pump with remote reservoir.

Re: 1970 C10 SB 350 to BB 396 Swap
 

You do not need to replace the front coils. My '70 had a 250 in it and I put in a 402 and did not change the springs. The ride height is the same as before. You will need engine stands as mentioned but the 350 mounts will work and are much less expensive than the big block mounts. I had to move the automatic transmission crossmember back to the rear mounting holes and shorten the driveshaft but you should not need to do that. Also you do not need a 4-core radiator unless you have air or will be towing with it. I have a 3-core and it keeps it plenty cool. The engine is stock with a mild cam and an Edelbrock 750 carb with HEI. You will need a big block fan shroud however.