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Big block in Nova

1K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  Super Streeter 
#1 ·
ok i have a 70 nova that had a small block in it. what will i have to change to put the big block in.


thanks
 
#2 ·
you will have to flip over the heater core and bring out the hoses near the fender, change the radiator to big block, get a stronger rear. you can run a big block in the nova without the heater core change but the big block cylinder head pushes against the hoses and every time you install or remove engine you risk breaking the core. been there.
 
#3 ·
With most stock manifolds and some cheapie headers it will drop in on the smallblock mounts,but if you have serious horsepower plans you need to get the correct bigblock mounts so that off the shelf big tube headers will fit right.Tall valve covers will be real close to a factory big style power brake booster,but wont pose a problem other then when removing or replacing the valve covers.You can fit a later G body styel booster to the car or run manual brakes if you need tall valve covers,otherwise run low covers and keep it simple.
I agree that you might need to step up the drivetrain a bit too.If you are planning on more then about 400 horsepower look for a later 8.5" 10 bolt from a 74 and up nova.and maybe a th400 to.Good luck.
 
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