Tech Question
Jerry Walker, Rohnert Park, CA, 1968 Plymouth Barracuda Formula S
I have a 1968 Barracuda Formula S Body and interior, but norunning gear as yet. The car originally had a 340 with a 6 pack and autotrans. I want to convert it to either a big block (383,440) or, if possible,a 426 Hemi. I know I will have to upgrade the brakes to disc brakes, and usethe mopar heavy duty torsion bars because of the excess weight. But I’m notsure which “K” member to use and what else I will have to do to complete theproject. I’m not too concerned about cornering, I want this car more forstraight line performance and doing burnouts at events (we all have to havefun now and then!) Please let me know what I need to do to get this right,OK? Thanks for the advice!
Jerry, It did NOT originally have a 340-6, but that’s irrelevant.
You might be able to get away with swapping K’s, see Schumacher’s site at:www.engine-swaps.com
Lots of other stuff needs to change, radiator, rear axle, beefy big-blocktrans, master cyl needs to be relocated (for hemi), chassis/frame upgrades,fuel system, etc. Etc. It’s a big job — certainly nothing impossible,though. (The full details of what needs to be done would take at least fewdozen pages). However, the outcome will be a nose-heavy car that’s notreally fun to drive on the street, even if you’re not into “cornering”. Buta clone of a ’68 SS/B Hurst-HemiCuda would be a cool deal, I’ll admit.
But…Could I convince you to go with a 500-HP stroker smallblock instead?Dressed as a stock ’68 340, this could also be great fun!
Rick
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