Topic: 1980 Formula replacement engine

[RipGiver]

I have a 1980Formula that has a 301 in it, and I want to find out what engines will fit under the hood.  I have a shop that builds 400 small block stroker engines that I have been looking at, but will they fit under a formula hood?

I have read that the 301 has a low profile deck on it, also I have read 79 was that last year they put 403 olds BB.  The formula doesn’t have the TA shaker hood it has the left and right hood scoops on it. 

I’m not sure what can of worms that I’m opening, but I’m just trying to find out as much information as possible before I start.

It was my high school car that has been sitting for almost 30 years.

Any help would be great!!  Thank you

[RENOVATIONS]

A Pontiac 400, Olds 403, SBC, etc will fit under the hood...no difference in clearances between 79 and 80...you'll just need the appropriate air cleaner assembly.

[RipGiver]

Ah thanks.  Would the automatic transmission be worth going through to handle the bigger engine or would you recommend something else?

Also, this is the link to some choices for engines.

https://blueprintengines.com/collections/gm-compatible-small-block-crate-engines/blocktype_small-block+horsepower_501-600


https://blueprintengines.com/products/383-ci-stroker-crate-engine-small-block-gm-dressed-longblock-fuel-injection-bp38313ctf1

[Wallington]

Be aware that it's a SBC 400, matters none for adding in a Firebird, even less since not a TA with shaker. So just treat it like any other SBC in a Camaro, or Firebird for setup, I can't comment on how tall an intake will work. Camaro setup is less helpful there since different hood but 99% also have a cowl hood now.

The 403 Olds was also a small block.

[RipGiver]

Ah ok. 

Yes, my brother had all kinds of problems with his 400 for some reason.  He finally gave up on it and went to a 350 crate engine.

Part of me wants to find a Pontiac engine for it, but not sure it’s worth the hassle.


Thanks for your response.

[Maxthe222]

Just slap a Pontiac 400 in that bad boy. Hop on CL, look around for a good ol block outta somewhere (you can find a real decent used one to rebuild for less than $1000) The car's body was made for a 400 Pontiac so it'll fit no probs. Unless you're building a 600 HP engine, a TH350 will be fine right? Cheap and easy to rebuild. It's all about slapping, really. Slap the engine in, slap together a TH350 rebuild kit, done. 

[RipGiver]

Agree, after searching around and reading lots of articles I have decided on a Pontiac 400 and do a rebuild of the TH350.

Should be awesome!!!

Thanks for you input.  Hopefully I can get some pictures in a few months when I drag it out and put it on the lift.