Crate engine for a 79 Monte

**Derg** · 01-28-2006, 02:19 AM

Hello. I'm seriously considering buying a '79 Monte Carlo. I don't want a 27 year old engine, so I was wondering if the good people here might have some suggestions on what kind of crate engine would fit and wouldn't tear the car apart.

**t/as&dds** · 01-28-2006, 03:10 AM

Funny you should ask. I got an email from Year One the other day that said they have a Power Crate 350 for $2995. It's a 9.5:1 compression 400+ HP, 440 Lb Ft Tq monster. For that kind of money, you can't go wrong. It's part number CT350PC1, and told me to enter code EM611 during checkout. Looks pretty sweet. It's got a warranty and stuff too. Check it out.

**Derg** · 01-28-2006, 03:47 AM

400 hp in a 350 is impressive. I think I could fit in a 454 but not without some awkward modifications in the engine bay. So definitely a 350 would be best. Now, the car is in excellent condition, but it wasn't exactly built for 400 hp, so I'm wondering if I'll need to do some other mods.

**t/as&dds** · 01-28-2006, 07:36 AM

I had a 79 Monte once, wasn't the prettiest color but it was a good car. Those cars are built solid and could easily handle 400 horses. I had 375HP in an 86 Monte with no problems. Just make sure that you beef up the tranny and have a limited slip. After that, no issues. I love those cars.

**hammertime** · 01-29-2006, 06:51 AM

Those cars have the same weak rear as our f-bodies, actually a smaller pinion at 7.5" instead of 7.625". You'll definitely want at least a limited slip. If you plan on abusing it, consider shopping around for an 8.5" 10-bolt out of a hurst olds or grand national, there are still a few of them out there.

Aside from that, these are full framed cars, so they'll have no problems with that kind of power.