V8 in the GT revisted

[Miskatonic]

One of my first posts was in regards to putting a Chevy 350 into one of my '73 GT's. After looking at the two parts cars I think that one of them is definitely in bad enough shape to warrant going with a V8 setup (and all that includes). The other is in good enough shape that I will set it aside for when I can afford to do a complete rebuild using mostly stock parts, though with some custom pieces as well.

Anyways, before I get started I wanted to make sure that I can realistically achieve my goal. Seeing that a V8 is going into this light weight car it might seem that I'm wanting to build a drag car, which isn't the case. I want a car more akin to a road course type, though it will be a street legal car. I want a V8 Opel GT that can handle well at higher speeds.

This is what I've thought up so far:

Remove the front end and use a fiberglass piece (forward tilting to allow full access for repairs)
Art Morrison frame and suspension (Not sure if he makes custom frames for Opel's)
Roll cage
Ford 9" rear (Not sure what gear ratio yet)
Richmond 5 speed
Chevy 350 stroked to 383, 400hp. Built by American Speed
Am I dreaming or can it be done?

[namba209 (R.I.P.)]

Can be done, has been done. Question is, how deep are your pockets? JP in FL I believe has done it or can do it. The Gages (saxybiker) have one almost done. Both do/did them right. It's almost like taking off the body, and putting it on a rather stiff ladder frame, which is hard to do with a unibody like the GT.

[Miskatonic]

With custom paint and interior can it be done for under 25k?

[namba209 (R.I.P.)]

Personally, I don't think so. With my V-6/T-5 project, which included a complete restoration, I've already surpassed that. You're looking at a custon frame and suspension, drivetrain, rewire, extensive body work, and a host of mods to do the job right. My project is almost done and kinda sorta driveable, with some things to be done yet and it's been a 6+ year project. A major undertaking, if you have the time, money, skill, and equipment, maybe, but don't count on it.

[Miskatonic]

Alright well at least that gives me an idea of where I stand. I know that the Art Morrison could run me around 9,000 (including suspension parts but no brakes), the engine about 6,000, the body work, paint and interior is probably another 7,000, the tranny around 2400.

I won't be sure about the frame and suspension until I call.

I'm only 25 so I have plenty of time to see this project through. I am, thankfully, a patient person. Lol.

[namba209 (R.I.P.)]

Understand, I am not trying to dissuade you from doing your project, just giving you a heads up on what's involved. To give you an idea, check out the Projects and Articles Section link in the top right center block of the main page. My project is in there up to now. Granted I did a lot more with the wiring, because of integrating a computer controlled engine into the GT harness, but you'll get an idea of what's needed for an engine swap of the "V" configuration. using stock suspension and components.

[Miskatonic]

I've actually read through most of the thread involving your project. It's always great to have one with pictures that show all the detail. It's a great looking car.

I'll go check out the Projects and articles posts right now.

[Ricky Slade]

I like your ideas about no dragster and building a road course car. I want the same thing with one caviot. I want a good performing road car suitable to drive safely and comfortable. You are welcome to look at some of my members gallery posts/pics. I chose a 215 Buick aluminum original four barrel V-8 engine built in 1963. Components are available from D&D fabrications. The engine comes stock at 200+ hp. With some minor work this can be increased. You have asked many questions which I am continuing to find answers for myself. I constructed my own frame with some aftermarket goodies such as coil over carreras front and rear. Independent front suspension with mustang II rack and Pinion. The rear portion is a quarter max setup and S&W roll cage. Shortened 9" Ford rear with disc brakes. I also just chaged directions from a super T10 Borg Warner trans to a T-5 five speed w/ovedrive due to the needed length. I also started with a GT and some rust. My only regret now, since recently welding in salvaged floor boards is, I wished I had started with a little better shape car. Sounds kinda morbid to some. Oh well sheetmetal issues are beginning to near completion. Good luck on the project and do your homework on the firewall area. The drivers side is extremely different from the passenger side. Pedal assemblies, steering and exhaust is very conflicting on the drivers side. Locating the width of a V8 enough in the aft direction begins to eat up much needed foot box area on the driver. Let me know how you come along. I have a ways to go myself. Mostly have undone and redone more thane once already.

[saxybiker]

With custom paint and interior can it be done for under 25k?

One year ago we got preliminary insurance on ours. They rated it on the receipts we submitted (just for parts) labor, etc. was not allowed to be included. We got it insured for $20,000. It has since been painted, lots more parts and goes to the interior shop in 2 weeks.

So, I don't think $25,000 will quite cover it. We plan to have it appraised upon completion and up the insurance accordingly.

Also expect it to take a long time (over 5 years now). Almost everything has to be hand built to fit into the teeny, tiny engine bay.

Vickie & Allen

[Gumby]

I'm doing some repair work right now on my Opel, seriously I don't know how you would work on it with a v8 under the hood... O_o I'm having issues getting to bolts as it is now.

[Miskatonic]

I'm doing some repair work right now on my Opel, seriously I don't know how you would work on it with a v8 under the hood.

Well that's the reason for the fiberglass front end, it's removable. You have to really take the knife to the stock front end, so to speak. I assume it's ok to just cut it off flush at the firewall, though if I am mistaken let me know.

I want the same thing with one caviot. I want a good performing road car suitable to drive safely and comfortable.

Oh I definitely agree, I want a comfortable ride that I can take into town when I feel like it. But I am forgoing A/C and heating when it comes to comforts. I don't want to use those hard plastic buckets that a lot of people throw in drag cars, I want leather buckets in the same style as stock. Though I imagine the seats will be moved back a little bit more towards the rear.

Did you go with a different front end or keep the original?

[Miskatonic]

Also expect it to take a long time (over 5 years now). Almost everything has to be hand built to fit into the teeny, tiny engine bay.

Thanks for the advice you guys I really appreciate it.

Financially speaking for me it's probably best that I put a time frame that doesn't suck up all my resources at once, lol. Five or six years is something I can live with. Hopefully I an find a shop around here that can do what I am unable to, and can understand and appreciate the challenge.