Thread: Chevy small block versus 3.8L 90deg V6

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Can someone give me any details about the engine mount locations on the 3.8L V6 (L36 as used in late model Camaros) versus a standard small block. My understanding is that the V-6 is essentially 3/4 of a 305, if so are the two cylinders missing ahead of or behind the mounts. I am investigating using a SB instead of a 3.8 in an upcoming project but don't have access to the engines or the chassis yet to make measurements. The V-6 is set back very close to the firewall and I want to know if I have to budget in a motor mount move.

Does anyone have any good figures for long block weight on these two engines? I have found 460pounds for the L36 but I don't know what state of trim that is.

I would get a factory overhaul manual, if you don't have one. It'll be good for wiring questions, etc.

I don't see why you would have to budget for motor mounts. You'll probably just need to move them forward on the crossmember. If I remember correctly, it can be a challenge because two bolts go in from the top and two go in from the bottom...patience.

Check this site for engine weights:

http://www.team.net/sol/tech/engine.html

I have a 3.8 out in my yard, in an '81 Malibu. It looks like a 305 uses the same mounts. I'll check it against my Camino tomorrow.

Just get a set of motor mounts for the LT1. Gen II SBC was used in the 4th Gen Camaro from '93 to '97.

When we turned my salvage-titled '81 Malibu into a race car, we had to replace the motor mounts. The car had a 3.8L in it and a 350 went in in it's place. The 3.8 and the 5.7 mounts were different. I used the same mounts that I used in the engine swap in my Hombre - those for a 2.8 V6 in the S-10's.

By the way, the V-6 being a 3/4 305 is not correct. These engines have nothing to do with each other. The original 3.8L was based off the old Buick 340 from the sixties. The 4.3L Chevy V-6 is basically a 3/4 350.