Engine for 81 Malibu

[Redman681]

I have an 81 Malibu with a v-6 in it and I would like to put in a larger engine. What would be a good engine that I could put in it that would give me more hp, but would be fairly easy to put in and find a trans, drive shaft, and diff to match it? Thanks for any info you can give.

[madmalibu]

I've been building these cars for years. You can put in any small block chevy with no problems. You can find 350's cheap and you can upgrade any part of it for more power cheaply and easily. You should also go with a TH 350 transmission, if you start abusing the one behind your V6 you'll kill it. As for the driveshaft, I'm pretty sure the V6 one is the same length, depending on your tranny, and if not one out of any TH 350 Malibu or Monte Carlo will fit. Also get the radiator and fan shroud out of a V8 car. The frame already has the holes for V8 motor mounts too. Hope this helps, if you have any other questions, just ask.

[Redman681]

Thanks a lot for the info. How easily could I be able to find a 350 and TH350 trans at a junk yard or parts dealer?

[madmalibu]

They are availiable at any wrecking yard. You might even want to check your local classifieds for a wrecked but running good car. That way you have everything there to switch over. The ideal thing would be to find a wrecked Malibu or Monte Carlo with a V8 or a Cutlass/Regal/Grand Prix with the Chevy engine. That way you'll already have the radiator and fan shroud for it. Your 81 has a computer, so your easiest way to do that is not use it, and just get an aftermarket carb. But overall the swap is really easy. I've done 4 of them from a V6 to a V8 and everything bolts right up. Like I said before, any questions just call, and good luck. Oh, and as for the rear end, if you keep the 350 mostly stock it will hold up fine, but if you start to build it up, look for a Monte SS or a Grand National posi unit. They have a 8.5 inch ring gear and will take some serious abuse.

[Limerock]

Stupid question time ... Could I pull the 350 and tranny out of my '81 K-5 Blazer and drop it in the '81 malibu? I've got a 229 in the Malibu now. Both transmissions are 3 speed automatics. Seems like a natural to me, but I'm clueless about the whole engine swap thing.
Thanks guys.

[C.S]

hey guys.. i just bought a 81 malibu, 4 door sedan, and i wanted to fix it up a little. just for cruisin. sunday calm ridin. i have my cobra for the fast speed. but im looking for parts to make her look pretty... anyone know of a good place that has 81 malibu aftermarket parts?

[C.S]

ive looked everywhere.. online and offline. im having a hard time. i found nice head lamps, but the side lights beside the head lamps are still ugly bright yellow...