James E. McCue's 1979 MGB with Chevy 2.8L V6
(originally published in British V8 Newsletter, Volume 5 Issue 2)
By: James E. McCue
City: Sunland CA
Model: 1979 MG MGB
Engine: Chevrolet 2.8L V-6
How It Was Done
Engine: | from 1994 S-10 pick-up truck. Purchased with 2200 original miles.
Fuel injected with VIN "Z" wiring harness and computer from
Howell Engine Developments Inc. (Marine City, MI). Moroso engine mounts. |
Transmission: | Chevrolet 4L60 4-speed automatic from Astro van.
Wiring harness, with vacuum adapter and overdrive lock-up
from Howell. Stock torque converter. |
Exhaust: | stock S-10 headers. Exhaust pipes sweep forward then down.
Fabricated by a local muffler shop. |
Wheels/Tires: | stock MGB "Rostyle" wheels with powdercoat. 175R14 Michelin tires. |
Suspension: | stock/rebuilt MGB. |
Cooling: | local radiator shop built 4-row core to stock MG. Integral trans cooler added. |
Rear End: | stock 3.9:1 MGB. Plans call for conversion to 3.0 or 2.9. |
Instruments: | removed clock and installed voltmeter.
New oil pressure and temperature gauges by Sun Pro.
Original fuel gauge with new tank sender. |
Conversion By: | owner. |
Cost: | $5-6,000 (excluding original car). |
Notes: | Would recommend use of a VIN "W" engine for a lower silhouette at hood. |