Hey everyone,

First off, I do not have a lot of experience in building a car, so for my Monte Carlo I am really just having my mechanic build it and I am in the process of figuring out what I want to put in it. I appreciate any advice and help anyone can offer, mechanics are busy people and I would like to bombard the forum with my questions and come to him when I know what is going on.

For background, I was torn about engine choices, I am in CA and am limited in terms of emissions, but a 350 bored over is something multiple mechanics and an emissions guy (local) said was fine. I found a few engines on ebay from reputable dealers that make around 400 hp for less than 3k which is perfect for my price range. I am looking at a couple TH400 transmissions, maybe posi... so far I have about 12k saved, but I am hesitant to start moving forward until I know I have enough to pay for all the parts and labor costs.

My first question is what are all the things I need to budget and account for when swapping a 400hp engine into a stock 1983 Monte Carlo? I want to get a list going so I have enough cash set aside, but due to lack of knowledge and experience I only know of some of the more obvious things: brakes, mounts, radiator, etc.