Hey everyone. I just picked up a 1978 camaro of Craigslist for 500 bucks. I bought the car since it needed a head gasket job, but as I started the car I notice it had a knock. So that's when I decide to either swap the engine or do a carb 5.3 swap. I've decided to to a carb 5. 3 swap.

To start of I've never done anything like this before. I've read a lot online on what I need as parts to do this swap but I was wondering if anyone has any tips or specific parts I need for this swap? I want this to be a simple and yet affordable swap.
Is this swap possible to do with a budget under 2500? Any tips or I deas will help me alot. I will be starting a youtube channel to show you guys the process of the engine swap and keep you updated

 

Hello Juantoids, welcome to this forum.

 

If I were in your shoes, I would tear the current motor down first to find out what's causing the knock and then decided to either rebuild or replace.

Welcome!

 

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This should be a photo of my Beast

 

The answer is, it depends on if you already have an engine and trans, and how much you do yourself. From what I see of 5.3 LS motor prices, you'll spend the whole amount and more for a 5.3 engine and trans, and maybe more! If you already have an engine/trans, then you'll be able to do the swap under $2500 if you do the work.
If the plan is to convert to a carb then you'll still need a stand alone computer to run the transmission. You may be able to adapt to an older trans, but that would cost more than getting the computer to run a newer style trans that bolts right up to a 5.3 LS.
Of course the cheapest route is buying or building a SBC 350, and skipping all the swap of engine and trans. So if the budget is tight, I'd stay with a SBC, and keep it simple.