If you want a big block then by all means go for it. Your Dad bought it new and I'm sure he would want you to enjoy it. Find a mild built 454, dress it as stock and have a blast. I like the idea of dressing is as a 385HP, seems more plausible. Whatever you decide to do, keep us in the loop.


Jason

Yes that is his '51 77 had since new as well. Good suggestion on the engine, I'll see what I can find, but I'm not going hog wild either. A 400 hp big block will be more than enough for this old girl.

I’ll take the 77:drool::cool2::naughty::cool::cool:

$5k, I'm actually consider selling it, I really don't have any use for it and could use the money.

NOPE, I would full on COPO that. IF it we mine, I would unbolt (since you or someone later can always BOLT the original stuff back in) COMPLETE driveline and save it off to the side.

Due to the size/weight, I would go 496 dressed as 427 with oval port head and 163 intake. Holley sniper EFI, 4L80 or 700R, 4.56 gear, 8" rear rims, 6 or 7's on the front.

AND RIDE IT OUT...........................

I was actually considering wider rims. Could you do 8" all the way around on an Impala? As far as the EFI, not unless I can make it look stock, I'd consider a 700r4 or 4l80 as long as no electronics are needed, I probably will go to a lower gear ratio as I think it now has like 2.08 or something.

Holley Sniper and FiTech and even Summit have self learning EFI that swap out the carb and a few other things and look much like a carb with the air cleaner on. No electronics and mild build, go 700R4. BUT if going to a bib block in that car, I would just do a stock with shift kit 4L80. And if you get 4.56's car will spin the tires nicely too.

Ok, I just want it to look factory possible. 4.56 seem WAY low, I was thinking 3.73 range.

Not with the over trans it shouldn't be. Or even 4.10s.

You suggested a 496 dressed as a 427, any idea what a 496 would run price wise? Or a 700r4 to stand the power it would provide? Or where to get these things? If I go crate engine/trans is there a good place that sells them with all required accessories? Is Jegs/Summit an option or should I look at Scroggin Dickey?