Hi all, just got a '77 Spider (no engine) and a 1980 parts car with 2000 cc engine. Pulled the engine and trans and dropped it into the '77. Anyone done a swap like this? I'm having a tough time wiggling the engine back far enough to drop onto the threaded mounts; it needs to go back another 3/4". Also the trans crossmember looks a little narrow but I suspect that will be easy to remedy.

I noticed the firewall on the '80 is relieved a bit where the cam housings would hit it. I'm thinking if the motor mounts didn't have the studs sticking out I could slide the motor back and drop bolts in. So there it sits... awaiting advice.

Thanks,

Tom

the transmission swap should be 100% one-for-one. they are the same diameter gear boxes.

well, the '77 has small bumps for a reason... big bumps are not needed. the two litre cars have big bumps because the engine is taller, and clearance was needed at both the top and the bottom of the engine to fit the larger block into the same engine bay.

use the x-member from the parts car. it allows additional clearance underneath. be concerned about the after effects however, as your oil pan will be that much closer to the pavement.

i have heard that there are some shorter motor mounts, for a different vehicle that will work to reduce the height a few more centimeters. sorry, i don't have specific information. getting the engine fully in place before inserting the motor mounts will help too.

then... do you know the play-dough trick for measuring the clearance between the carb breather and the hood? you are gonna wanna check top end clearance before you slam that hood closed. you might do better by swapping in that two litre hood for additional clearance upstairs.

Tom,

where in michigan are you? we need to talk face to face.

send me an email to:
MBOUSE at CHARTERMI dot NET