80 TA/ + 400 build -- Couple questions.

[1980Esprit]

First off I will ask a question about headers. I will have a 400 Poncho fit into a 1980 TA (it needs custom mount anyway because 80 went to the infamous 301 *Sigh*), and I will be adding headers. (motor in build atm, never installed) I am looking towards longtubes, but shorty wouldn`t be too bad either. I`m having a bit of trouble finding a pair that would fit because the 80 never used the 400. However, 1979 had used the 400 so I`m not sure if that would be what I would have to do. This is a 72 400 so not even sure if it is same as 79 400. 79 and 80 had same engine bay design although same nose cone and basic design though. Hopefully ceramic coated and tuned headers if possible and not the silver/chrome colored ones, looking for the black pair but not painted.


Next up is on the build. I`m interested in getting opinion on what brand of oversize main, cam, and rod bearings. I`m also needing new pistons and wondering what kind of pistons you would recommend. It is not going to be full out race motor but a motor to have a bit of fun on the street with. Looking at around 400-600 range for a set of 8 in price. Do not need any rods, using stock ones and will press new pistons on. Also looking for pistons that come with own rings but dont have to be already installed.

Whats the best place to buy these if I do buy any. I live in Canada but shipment hopefully shouldn`t be any problem. Could possibly go to Minot, ND if had to be to go to any local stores their. Do not have PO box in USA, just Canada.

 

[Greenbird76]

I installed a 78 400 into a 1980 Formula years ago. Here is a picture with the motor mounted and the nose off the car. I ran hooker long tube heads. Mounting them required raising the motor about an inch off the engine mounts. I also found the motor to sit quite high off the mounts and I had much trouble finding a suitable air cleaner to use with the stock hood. My 76 Esprit currently has a sbc with longtube headers and I have also included a picture of that from the underneath of the car so you can see how at least with the sbc application, how nice they fit. The 400 Pontiac is one of the next projects to go into my 76. I will be retaining the 700r4 and will get an adapter plate. The 400 has mildly worked 6x4 heads, edlebrock performer rpm manifold, ram air iv cam. It has gobs of torque. I want to run a set of Dougs headers and a Pypes stainless kit with the Pontiac motor.