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LE V8 Conversion

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69MGC

69MGC

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I'd like your opinion on converting a 1979 B LE to a V8. Is this a good idea or would it decrease the value of an LE model? I have an opportunity to get a completely rebuilt aluminum Buick V8 for $1,000 and was thinking that it might make a good engine for the LE. Comments are appreciated.
 
I would think it would depend more on the condition of the LE and whether or not it is a “true” LE. I’ll leave that to the experts here.

While the later Rubber Bumper B’s 77 to 80 are probably the best choice, for a Buick/Rover V8 conversion (or any conversion for that matter) as the engine bay is already pretty much setup to accept that V8 with little or no cutting or modifications.

But where you can have problems is with emissions. Here in Kalifornia (76 onward) as well as a number of other states, most Rubber Bumper Bs still have to be smog tested. While not impossible to do even with all of the strict & difficult hoops you’d have to jump through with a state appointed referee just to get it registered. Perhaps an earlier B even with all the cutting & modifications might be the better choice.

My $0.02,
Bret
 
Unless the LE is in immaculate, original condition, I would not see a problem in a conversion of this type. Save everything removed...it's a fairly easy swap back to 4-cylinder if needed.

The engine bay is ready to accept the BOP-Rover block (the small block Ford would be a different story). While desirable, it is not mandatory to use RV8 headers through the fenderwells as you could use block huggers and eliminate any major structural changes under the bonnet.

It will cost you more than $1000 (for the engine) to do this conversion. How much do you want to have invested in your car?

FWIW - YOMV
 
I was hoping to keep the total cost to around $5-$6K. I've got 1500 into the purchase of the car already.
 
That price range is very doable.

If you haven't done so already, contact D&D Fabrication up in Michigan. Lotsa stuff you may need.
 
I don't see why noy to put swap in a V8 in an LE....I personally wouldn't, but it's your car so...
Theres actually someone local to me that does V8 conversions on later MGB's...I don't think he's started with any real LE's but he's made all his conversions look like LE's
 
seems to me it'd make your LE a more "Limited Edition" than most of the other LEs running around out there. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif
 
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