Charlie wrote:
> Hi,
>
> We have a 1974 Nova and it's time to upgrade. We are the original owners
> and know it's history.
>
> It has a 6-cyl 250, 3 speed transmission and drum brakes.
>
> My upgrade plans include the following major steps
> 1. Install V8 engine (283, 307, or 350, low octane with good MPG)
> 2. Overhaul the front end
> 3. Overhaul the transmission
> 4. Overhaul the differential
> 5. Install disk brakes on the front
> 6. Replace front and rear springs
>
Well, a Ford guy contributed opinions so I guess I'll be the Mopar guy
to contribute :-)
First off, items 2, 4, 5, and 6 are ESSENTIAL. Even for just restoring
to "stock" engine power, you want good brakes and great suspension. GM
midsize car suspensions from that era were kinda iffy at best, starting
to head for "cushy personal luxury" ride instead of handling. Consider
polygraphite suspension bu****ngs, adding a larger front stabilizer bar
and a rear stabilizer bar if not equipped. Springs- pick the stiffness
you WANT, don't assume that stiffer is always better. If everything else
is well-tuned, you can have a good ride AND decent handling.
If you're going to get rid of the straight six, I'd consider replacing
both the engine and transmission with a modern multi-****t EFI engine and
4-speed overdrive transmission. This should be particularly easy on a
Chevy, and you have lots of engine choices ranging from a Vortec v6
(which will be a huge gain in both power and efficiency over your old
250), all the way up to an LT-1 or even LS-1 v8 with 3 times the power
of your 250 (and would still get better mileage, too).
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