Small block Mopar Crate Motors?

Question

I've got a '73 Charger SE with a 318 that I plan on replacing after I finish up the bodywork. Has anyone installed a 360 or 402 crate motor & were any serious problems incurred? By serious, I mean did you wind up having to swap out the K-frame etc. I'd also like to keep the AC, so what caveats are there with that?
If you're a Mopar hater & plan on responding with something "funny", try to be more original than "Mostly Old Parts And Rust".
For the "Mopar or No Car" people, thanks for taking the time to answer.

Answer 1

The K-Frame DOES NOT have to be changed when going from small block to big block. You can pull out a 318 and drop in a 440 or any other big block with a simple motor-mount change and, of course, the small block 904 trans will not bolt up to a big block.
As far as installing a crate motor the only real problem you could run into is if you decide to run the fuel injection you will have to install the computer and it's related components. Might be easier to go with a nice aftermarket aluminum intake and carb. Also, keep in mind if you go with a big block you will need a larger radiator, 3 or 4 core will work fine but I would go with the 4 core if you keep the a/c. Finally, putting your a/c on a crate motor should be easily done as well with little or no modifications. Your stock condenser will work fine as long as it's still functional.

Answer 2

Mopar Crate Motors

Answer 3

I put a 360 crate motor in a 68 Barracuda. They tell you it's a drop in. DON'T believe them. First the intake manifold is different as to how the bolts go. They are on an angle with a regular 360, and the Magnum crate motor, they are strait up and down. Thats just the start. Plan on lots of big, and little headaches. I had to fabricate lots of linkage,brackets, etc. Another words it's not as easy as they say, but it can be done, and it is quite rewarding when done.

Answer 4

I don't think you do. A 318 engine motor mount fits up to a 383 motor mount. Anything bigger than a 383 you will probably have to change your mounts. I hope this helps you. Good luck restoring your charger. F.Y.I. vintage Mopar cars holds more value than ford or chevy could ever imagine!!! If you have time check this web site out. www.texastoybox.com. I purchased a 1972 plymouth satillite from them and the owner who is a chevrolet guy said that he wouldn't think about restoring any other car manufacture unless its Mopar cars or trucks. You will enjoy this web site!!!!

Answer 5

all small block motor mounts 273-360 are the same if your car came with a 318 a360 will fir the a-body no mods as far as the 383 400 413 426 hemi and 440 you will hav to change the k-member i hope this helps

Answer 6

You should have no problem installing a small block. It's what came from the factory. A big block should also fit without any major hang ups. The a/c should bolt up no problem. You may have to add a mounting bracket for the compressor, and you can buy new hoses and related items easily.

Answer 7

k frame needs to be changed if you go from small block to big block. 360 drops in with zero modifications get decent headers and have them "jet coated" [ 360 is externaly balanced if auto . you will have to use a torque convertor for a 360 otherwise a bad viberation will occur]

Answer 8

My husband is restoring a 68 Charger and has LOTS of experience with this, I can hook you up to his email address if you don't get the answer on here. Let me know.

Answer 9

Dodge spark plug gaps have always been .035" until recently. Even now it isn't any farther then .040". I would stay with .035 and widen it if it seems to need a hotter spark.