ZZ383 Swap into a C2

[Dennis B.]

I have just completed a ZZ383 swap into my 66 Coupe with a small block hood. Everything fit just fine and the hood WILL close. We had to use a Patriot D port header that fit nicely. Used an Edelbrock Performer Vortec manifold, Holley Street Avenger 750, stock 66 drop base air filter with a 3"x14" Fram filter. Hood closes with no problem.

[Jim T.]

Re: ZZ383 Swap into a C2

Are you going to race or just pleasure drive your 66? I put a ZZ1 crate engine in my 70 coupe and have really enjoyed the increased performance. I used the original exhaust manifolds although they were not a exact match for the D-port aluminum head ports. For the type of pleasure driving I don't think the difference is all that great. My crate engine came with a LT-1 style alumimun high rise intake and using the drop type open element air cleaner my hood closed clearance is just fine. What is the performance like with your 383?

[Dennis B.]

Re: ZZ383 Swap into a C2

The performance of the 383 is outstanding. I do not plan on any "racing" the car just street and highway driving. I chose the 383 for it's high HP/Torque rating in a small block. My concern was to get it under a small block hood which I did. I went with headers on mine because when I took a new set of 2.5" rams horns to be port matched to the D port heads they did not feel there would be enough material left to get a good seal wiht a header gasket.