Hey guys, I just wanted to ask a quick question. I've found a 1971 Camaro for sale for a pretty decent price and I've always loved them so I'm thinking about getting it. Now if I did I would want to swap out the engine and tranny and add a couple light modifications. My question though is what would I need and how difficult would it be to swap out the engine and tranny (it's a 4 speed) to Chevys 454ho and a tko 5 speed. I know I would need a radiator, bb fan, engine mounts, transmission mounts, and stiffer springs. But I don't know about the oil pan (the 454ho uses the truck pan I think) or anything else.
Thank you guys. I'm sure you get these kinda questions a lot

 

Yes, the BBC swap to a 2nd gen is indeed a frequent question. Not often done with a late model TKO or T56, but it's an excellent choice, as long as the 454 isn't going to be too built, or hammered too hard. They'll hold up to most moderate BBC builds.
You will need the big radiator, and an aftermarket aluminum with two 1" rows works well for most. Not sure a BBC uses any different fan, but I prefer mechanical fans, and a 6 blade clutch fan really works well! You can change engine mounts, but not necessary. SBC stock mounts will work. The TKO will require a new location for trans mount, and either new mount, or re-fabricating the old one. If your front coils are older, then you will need new ones. I used SBC coils for an HVAC car, as I didn't want mine up in the air like BBC coils would do.
You should also rework your heater core and box. Pull the heater box, and reverse the core, then drill two new holes for hoses. Weld or seal up the old holes. This will allow any valve cover and not interfere with the heater core. I left mine stock, but never ran any taller valve covers.
The TKO will also require a driveline that's shorter, and different yoke to fit the TKO. Then there's the conversion to a hydraulic clutch, unless you order the TKO modified for this application.

 

Well I'll definitely romp on it occasionally, but I have no intention of modifying the 454 any. I plan to leave it stock from the factory. As for the tko, I said that because the tko is a fairly common and inexpensive 5 speed that still seems to be a quality item. If there is a better 5 speed to use I'm not set on a tko, but I do want 5 gears.
As for suspension, I plan to lower the entire car a bit anyway so new springs probably will be no issue.
Other than that it seems pretty straight forward. Thank you

 

The TKO 500 or 600 is a good choice, the numbers are their ft. lbs. torque rating.
Is your 454 going to be putting out those kind of torque numbers?

 

Okay. Yeah I already knew I'd have to go with the tko-600. The 454 should be right at 425hp and 500ft/lbs.

 

There you go, get the 600 and romp on it!!