Hi Everyone, new to this forum. Just bought an 81’ Camaro. The guy I bought it from was in the military (and had no time for the car), he had purchased it from a guy who passed away whose family had inherited it and knew little about the car. The old guy had swapped the 350 for a 454.

The military guy I bought it from said his mechanic said the suspension and subframe was good and okay for the weight of the 454. You never know when buying cars if everything someone says is true.....especially when it wasn’t him that did any of the work to this car.
So my question is, how can I tell if the suspension is good enough to stand the weight of the 454?? What will be the signs of it isn’t? Would I feel it bottoming out like it was gonna scrape the concrete? I’m in the flooring business and sometimes we load to much material in the back of the truck and it bounces badly and sometimes makes a grinding noise, and is difficult to steer......would it be the same for the front end with a 454 or more subtle?

Just trying to to figure out how hard it will be for me to tell.

Thank you

 

You could always swap in a set of springs for a 1970-3 big block Camaro SS .And or check with an aftermarket company .And tell them what you are doing with the car.With all the different set ups out there.

 

Depending on who you ask the 454 is about 150-200 pounds more than a 350,if it has aluminum heads a bit less.
I ran a 427 big block in a '69 with stock small block springs and had no problems with it but as Z said you can always get a set of big block springs for it.

 

Yeah, as already stated you should be fine. The weight difference isn't that much..... depending on what kind of shape the springs are in... if they are weak from holding **** up for the last 38 years.. then even with the 350 they might have needed replaced... Look at some pics online and see how your car sits in comparison... Might even get someone with fresh springs to measure to the fender lip for you. However, driving it, hitting bumps, you should be able to tell if the springs are shucked... if the tires rub (provided the tires are the right size) Which I believe was P 225/70 R 15. Beyond that.. does it sit okay, does it bottom out too easily? if it doesnt, and rides okay with you then RUN them!

 

Use all the parts for a 70 Camaro with a 396; engine mounts, frame mounts, radiator, springs, and shocks and you will be fine.