Chevrolet Repair: engine swap, impala ss, caprice classic

Question
how much should i be charged for swapping out my 93' 305 (caprice classic) for an LT1 350 ( or something similiar)?

im pretty sure that all of the components would carry over except for the headers.  

Answer
Hi Richard,

The difference between a 305 and an LT1 is night and day.  A standard 305 and 350 are virtually the same.  But LT1 is different in many aspects.  First is a reverse flow water pump, different heads, different intake and plenum, different computer and most importantly different distributor.  

If this LT1 is an entire engine, and all you are talking about is mounts, headers, and bell housing, then the computer is the only big issue.  

The LT1 in my Camaro is mounted against a 700R4 transmission.  You need a sturdy and geared tranny to get the power you feel in an Impala SS.  You also should consider that LT1 is only 275 HP stock, and has a lot of expensive upkeep.  If you are going to change over that drastically, you may want to consider a 350LS instead.  More reliable and less upkeep.  Plus 315HP stock.

If you are not doing this labor, it can get pricey.  May be cheaper to sell the Caprice and buy an already done Impala SS, especially if it needs some work.

I hope this helps

C J S