is it possible to put a big block 454 in a 1972 Chevy nova ss?

Question

if so what do i need to do? or know?
thanks

Answer 1

It will go in with very little trouble. V8 frame mounts if you don't have a V8 in it now. The engine is heavier so better springs and a thicker front sway bar will help. Disc brakes if you don't have them. Some wiring may need to be moved to match the big block's senders. Headers or a factory Nova big block exhaust system will be needed. Jegs has them. A larger radiator is a must. Sub frame connectors will keep you from twisting the body. All parts are easy to get. You can replace the original tranny, drive shaft, and rear end when you break them, and you will. It will cost some serious money to do it, but what a screamer when it's done. I swapped a small block into a Nova that had an original 6 in it. What a difference. I can imagine what a big block will be like. Good luck.

Answer 2

While 20" rims are the bomb these days on a classic car like that I wouldn't change rim size nor would I change rims. Years ago the thing to do if you had a car like that was to put Cragar S/S rims with wide 60 series tires in the rear and 70 series in the front. These days a much more popular and value retaining option is to keep the tire size closer together and replace the rims with the factory mags. The paint is probably original and I would go back with the Chevrolet Orange. If the car is a true S/S it should have come with a 350cu. It should have the S/S emblems not only on the quarter panels but also on the grill. The only changes I would even consider and that would be only if you weren't planning to show it would be to have the interior redone in a black tuck and pleat. That'd be a sweet ride. The Chevelle was a much more popular version of the Chevy muscle car and in the S/S version usually came with a 396cu that would easily take the 350 Nova.

Answer 3

yes it is possible because i have a 70 chevy nova ss and i have a big block 408 in it and there isnt much difference between the too besides the power.

Answer 4

Yes with no problem. As long as you have the original motor mounts. The SS version all had V8's anyway. Do you have a motor or thinking of buying a crate motor from Chevrolet. Their packages look very good for the money.

Answer 5

Possible? It's common. Most of that old GM stuff was interchangeable to some extent. What you need to do is collect a pile of money. What you need to know is that you will be spending it, and that the end product will be worth way less than your investment.

Answer 6

'72's could be purchased with a 350 V8, so hammering or "dimpling" is probably not needed. Some of these even came with a 396" big block engine in them.

Ever hear of a "YENKO" NOVA? check THIS out.

http://www.corvettes-musclecars.com/Supercars/69YenkoNova/

Answer 7

If you've never replaced an engine, leave it to a professional. At the very least, you will need to 'dimple' one of the valve covers, make custom headers, and find a custom power brake cylinder. Who knows what you'll need to do with your steering linkage.

Answer 8

Ya, I would think so, most of the old chevy engines and trannys are quite universal, thats whats so great about them. Personally I would put a 6.2 diesel in it.

Answer 9

possible?.....yes,but a lot of planing & work........all the answers above describe only some problems..........mounting,inner fender well tubing,hood clearance,suspension upgrade,etc.........the famous YENCO nova was produced by yenco chevrolet [aproved by G.M.]........they instaled the legondary L88 . 427 c.i.d. engine in novas & camaros........but they were a dealer & had every thing on hand,& you paid for that!

Answer 10

should bolt right in if the nova was a V8 origionally, if it was a 6 cyl. you will have to change the motor mounts.