I think it's an L83 please correct me if I'm wrong on that.My engine is all stock never been apart.I'd just like to know what's inside.4 or 2 bolt,steel or cast crank,Heads,push rod guides stuff like that.It is an 82 crossfire Collector Ed.Thanks.Is there a place on this site that brakes it down that far?

Gator,
Here is a link that has quite a few specs on the 1981. It will also do a breakdown on almost all the Vettes. Just enter the year you want to research.
Scott

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/specs/c3/1981/81specs. html

2-bolt mains, cast crank, no pushrod guide plates, "standard" small block iron heads. Not much exciting, but adequate and reliable (at least mine is).

Is there a head out there that I can swap in that will let it breath better? I know that these engines are the forgotten ones and nobody makes much for the L83 so I'm not expecting much.How about changing for a ZZ4 and keeping my stock engine.It is #'s matching.I guess my ? is what would you do if you had an all original 82 collector editiion and wanted more preformance?Thanks.How much do those zz4 engines run Appx.$$ wisezgator38765.3463078704

You can certanly install better breathing heads, but it won't make much of a difference if you keep the original induction (crossfire injection) system. The manifold's breathing capability is the severe limiting factor.

Further: it's your car; do whatever makes you happy. But in my opinion, due to this cars's underhood "complexity," and the near impossible task of bringing it back to original (if ever desired) after a different engine had been installed (with the modifications that that process will surely bring), it's a mistake (especially on a matching numbers original car). While these cars are not considered particularly valuable now, I believe in the future, they will become so.

So, what it comes down to (strictly my opinion): either leave it alone and enjoy it as is; or, if you really want a faster car, sell this one and get another one that is (or one that it won't "hurt" to make into one).    

[QUOTE=zgator]Is there a head out there that I can swap in that will let it breath better? I know that these engines are the forgotten ones and nobody makes much for the L83 so I'm not expecting much.How about changing for a ZZ4 and keeping my stock engine.It is #'s matching.I guess my ? is what would you do if you had an all original 82 collector editiion and wanted more preformance?Thanks.How much do those zz4 engines run Appx.$$ wise[/QUOTE]

To me and having an original #'s matching engine while want more preformance is try to see if any turbo, super charger or nitous is compatable or just swap out the old for a new and keep it.  

For both my lady and I say there's enough performance in the vette that both of us enough the ride.       And have come in terms to keep the vette bone stock until theirs no more engines, parts, etc  left in the world.   

Good Luck in finding your performance high.    

i agree. keep those beautys as they are so our grandchildren can find #machting cars.... ( and fight for them ! ).If you want performance ( and this is only a few times the 1/4 mile ...= 15 sec's in comparison of days driving...  ) buy a BB '69 ! or a 350/350 '70 ...  sorry ,....

I kinda agree with redvet, but there are some changes you can do to what you have. I have had small valve heads turned into 2.02's, and you can install splayed 4 bolt main caps and a steel crank into your existing block. Some where, I think here on this site is a post about having the runners on crossfire manifolds opened up to make them flow more. You can surface the heads for more compressioin or install higher compression pistons after it's bored out. All this and still have matching numbers! All it takes is $$$$$$

Dave

www.x-ram.com

Just a thought for upgrading the induction since you want to upgrade heads and such for a little more umph.

Sarge

Iron82:I think you are right.I just got back from a topless ride and man it was nice.I guess I'll keep it just like yours.By the way,have you fixed your vanity mirror yet.Tell me how hard/easy it was

Sarge81;Thank you!!! for the link.That might be right up my ally.You guys are great!!!

Redvet;I know these cars are not that much$$$ right now but I have seen them sell for a couple of dollors below $30,000.I know it don't seem right but they did.

zgator38765.5395949074