new Pontiac hot rodder!

[bagnasty]

21 years old, just bought my first old car. 1957 Pontiac Chieftain, 2dr hardtop. I plan on keeping it original looking but the original engine/trans are gone and I want to go fast! I've got a 70's Firebird engine that I want to put in front of a TH-400. I am anticipating lots of mounting problems, so if anyone has any tips or suggestions, it would be very much appreciated. Looking forward to talking with everyone here.
-Willy, central California

[guthriesmith]

Welcome to the HAMB. Your Chieftain sounds like a cool project. I have a few Pontiacs also. What kind of 70's Firebird engine do you have that you are planning on putting in the car?

[bagnasty]

Here's the details. It's a 400 out of a '75 which is a real low compression motor at 7.6:1. I am not sure what to do with it yet and am considering:
1. finding some 67-69 heads to raise the compression
2. going with a 428 if I can find a cheap one that will run
3. underdriven blower??? (definitely not out of the question, but will take a lot of time to earn the money)
I've got a BOP THM-350 right now, but am looking for a 400 since this will not exactly be the lightest car on the road at ~3700 lbs. I need to fabricate side motor mounts to the rails and a trans mount as well. I am a decent welder, but this is my first project car. If you have any suggestions, it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Willy.