Is anybody doing this swap? Any kits available?

I don't know if it has been done, but most people just swap in a SBC V8 since it's the same amount of work. I think the 4.3 is just SBC with a couple cylinders missing....same bolt pattern and stuff otherwise.

someone correct me if I'm wrong

do a search for "archie", he sells the V8 kit....you'll probably need that if you go the 4.3 route

Dave

Its been done at least twice. It fits nicely. Thing is, you need the same adapter kit that is used to put a SBC V8 in a Fiero, so most people opt for the V8. http://www.v8archie.com/

You're right. It is basically a SBC with 2 cylinders missing. Pistons also are SBC 350(cheap). I have a turbocharger just the right size and it follows that the engine would be lighter than the SBC and being shorter it'd make anm easier fit in a Fiero. They will support 500HP reliably when built properly.

The problem is, the 4.3 heads SUCK. You will need major porting work to get any power out of them. Hot Rod Magazine was able to get one up to 300HP, normally aspirated, but that was also with a big cam, high rise intake, and carb - and no emissions.
500HP, even with a turbo, is going to require a serious buildup. I've never seen a 4.3 achieve that power level.

I think it was in Car Craft where they put a centrifugal blower on one and did a write-up on it. They were actually able to surpass 500HP but this is the point where they began to lose head gaskets. O-ringing the heads would probably take care of this but 500, or truthfully even 300HP would be fine for my purposes.

Excellent fit. runs well in city or country at ~290 HP.

What part of the country are you in?

Russ

quote Originally posted by Formula88: The problem is, the 4.3 heads SUCK. You will need major porting work to get any power out of them. Hot Rod Magazine was able to get one up to 300HP, normally aspirated, but that was also with a big cam, high rise intake, and carb - and no emissions. 500HP, even with a turbo, is going to require a serious buildup. I've never seen a 4.3 achieve that power level.

Depends on what year your talking about. 96 and newer Stock Vortec heads are awsome. They need no work to will handle just about anything you throw at them. Minor trimming to achieve over cam .500 lift.

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Hi again. I'm located in southeastern Wisconsin and I commute 100 miles round trip/day for work. I was just really surprised I didn't see more about this swap anywhere. Seems like it'd have a lot more potential than a 3800 Buick and yet be easier to shoehorn in than a SBC. V8 Archie wrote back and says I can use his kit if I flip the front engine bracket around. You guys are putting great stuff in this thread!! Thanks!!

https://www.fiero.nl/forum/Archives/Archive-000002/HTML/20050119-1-044164.html

Since I posted that thread I've discovered a couple things that could be added however. I now strongly recomend you install the water pump right side up. There IS enough of room to snake the rad hose by the frame with it rightside up after all, and my temp now runs a rock solid 180* with the stock Fiero radiator.
I also changed the muffler to a stock V-6 type, (without a cat). much quieter than the flowmaster, but still sends the message that you have some HP under there.

Wow Russ the other thread from Archie's you posted is absolute gold! I'm REALLY leaning this way now. One other nice thing about parts availability for this engine is that Painless Wiring amongst many others sells a standalone fuel injection harness for both the Vortec and TBI styles. I've used their F.I. harnesses a couple of times before and was pleased both times. Nobody I know of makes a harness for the 3800. Thanks for the great thread!!!

Chevy guy,

Check your PMs. I have a 4.3 Vortec for sale.

Bonzo