Topic: engine
in Forum: C3 Engines
Hey there folks: Just recently signed up and not sure of this system yet. My question is: I have an 81 that is having CCC, ECM problems. We disconnected the smog system and ECM. I am going to change out intake, distributor and carb. Have any of you changed these out and what are your recommendations part wise? Am also strongly considering ZZ4 with intentions of keeping stock motor for future needs, etc. Thanks for any advise! Gurtz |
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thats the million dollar question
what are your goals ??
torque, HP, mileage. etc.
pulling a numbers matching and realively "wimpy" original engine and replacing with a zz4 is a very popular move.
A ZZ4 is an excellent way to go if you decide to replace the engine entirely.
Lots of good parts out there for your purposes. Just decide what you want as an end result that best meets your needs and obtain parts matched to achieving that.

Moderator
The ZZ4 is indeed a popular swap. You need to decide what you really want to do with your car(race/autocross/cruize, etc), set a goal of sorts, and go from there.
There is a tremendous amount of knowledge here at C3VR...ask away!!

Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56
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I appreciate the replies. Since I am now getting roughly 8.5 mpg city, I would have to say mileage. I would prefer the HP and torque, but this is a daiy driver for my wife and she isn't interested in the HP/Torque, but I do drive the vehicle regularly. You know the rest of my answer. Is installing the ZZ4 a tough proposition. I am fairly mechanically inclined and have restored other cars. This Vette is tight and I read the other questions from the members and I see some very detailed replies. Thanks, gurtz |

I appreciate the replies. Since I am now getting roughly 8.5 mpg city, I would have to say mileage. I would prefer the HP and torque, but this is a daiy driver for my wife and she isn't interested in the HP/Torque, but I do drive the vehicle regularly. You know the rest of my answer. Is installing the ZZ4 a tough proposition. I am fairly mechanically inclined and have restored other cars. This Vette is tight and I read the other questions from the members and I see some very detailed replies. Thanks, gurtz |
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its a pretty easy swap... quite a few guys here have done it..
but if you really want to get better mileage... i probably wouldnt do the swap.
youd be better off putting a perfomer intake with a qjet and going to an OD trans
Again, thanks for your reply. Is it normal to get 8 1/2 mpg city? I have friends that had my year and they say no and I have friends that currently have C 4's and they say that is about typical mpg for Vettes. My mechanic shop owner says that it is low also and we could better it. Gurtz |
A lot depends on how the car is driven. Around town I doubt if I get much better then that but I have a heavy foot. The OD trans helped a little but the real difference is seen on road trips. I can get about 17mpg. My Holley needs a little fine tunning to get any better.
Brian - NCM Lifetime Member
73 coupe L48, Flat-top pistons, Performer RPM Heads, Crane Cam and roller rockers, Holley 650 vac sec. Performer intake,
3.55 gear BTO 200-4R trans,
Leather seats, Seatbelt Plus 3point seatbelts, Pioneer CD player
Magnaflow Exhuast System

Annicorvette
Lifetime member # 35