Topic: ZZ4
in Forum: C3 Engines
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Hello Everybody,
I'm pretty new here (few minutes ...) so I hope I'm doing it right if not please be patient with me and point me to the right direction - Thanks in advance.
I just finished the instalation of a ZZ4 engine into my 70 Vette.
I was wondering if any one of you did something similar before since I have few technical questions.
Thanks,
Ron
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MARYSVILLE, WA - USA
Joined: 10/22/2006
Posts: 129
Vette(s): 1976 stingray, L48 COUPE, TH350 Automatic WITH A ZZ4 355 HP 350 C.I. MOTOR, 750 cfm HOLLY, EXTERIOR RED, INTERIOR BUCKSKIN, SMOKE BLACK GLASS TEE TOPS.
I'm installing one in my 76 now. Ask away as I have learned a few things from the guys on this site as I have been going through the process. I haven't started it yet but I'm close.
Lifetime MemberSHELBYVILLE, TN - USA
Joined: 7/5/2002
Posts: 3942
Vette(s): 1976 L48 auto
1978 L82 4speed
1994 LT1 6speed
1978 L82 4speed
1994 LT1 6speed
I too, have a zz4 in my 78... didnt have really any problems...
StingrayJim 
NCM Lifetime Member #1936
Stingray's '76���������������������������� StingrayJr's '78���������������������������Lil Red '94 
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There are several here who have completed the transplant and all will help.
Welcome to the site.
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Thanks Dave.
One of the problems I have is how to connect the RPM Gauge to the new distributor. I'm not sure if in 82 they still had the same system in place but in my Vette (70) it is a mechanical cable that I just don't have where to plug in the new distributor.
Any idea how to overcome this ?
There are still some companies that make a distributor with the cable drive setup, I believe MSD has one that will work. If you still have your old motor you could use the distributor out of it.
Other wise you would have to replace you tach with one from a newer Vette, I think they started in 75.
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
Dewitt radiator and dual electric fans
Borgeson Steering box
Lifetime MemberManteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold
1975 L48 4 speed
Ron, if you have to change the distributor, don't forget to insure you have the right drive gear for a roller cam, it's a different composition.
Jimmy B.
Just can't wait to get on the road again. 
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Lifetime MemberManteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold
1975 L48 4 speed
Forgive me if you're already aware of this, but it was worth mentioning. A billet cam, such as that in the ZZ4, requires a softer metal drive gear or it will chew up the cam. Comp cams makes a very nice after market gear, but they get about $110. for it. It wears much better than the bronz type. You should be able to use the gear off the distributor that came with the ZZ4 (just drive out the pin) it wouldn't work for the standard cast steel cam anyway.
Jimmy B.
Just can't wait to get on the road again.
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Ft.Lauderdale, FL - USA
Joined: 6/21/2008
Posts: 31
Vette(s): 78 coupe, Dk Brown, ZZ4 385 hp fast burn, steeroid rack/pinion, Keisler 5 speed. Built to run with C5 and C6. on the highway. Can't beat them. But they can't lose me in there mirrors. LOL I built it to enjoy. So far I've tripped through 15 States.
ZZ4 385 fastburn in my 78
in Forum: C3 Engines
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