I'm a "Dinosaur" when it comes to EFI so please forgive !I'm considering going EFI in my 64' Lark . I'm on a tight budget . Anyway ,I've found a good running TBI engine/tranny in the paper for $300.00 . I've been reading post all over here and CHP . Alot of people like them ,as many don't . I understand it's old tech EFI . It seems that there are some mods that help it's power .

I'm getting info overload and cross-eyes from searching for info .

Should I consider this system ? I'm wanting to do some minor H/P mods too it . ie: TBI Unit, Chip, porting if needed , Exhaust (hdrs.2.5"), Hotter Ignition . Once I figure all that I want to do it and the rest of the drivetrain do I just get ahold of these companies that can burn a chip for me for my specs ? I won't expect the car to pile up blacktop behind the wheels just some fair "Poke" .

Thanks ,

Steve

A factory GM TBI system would be tough to convert to a non-Chevy engine for a couple of reasons. First one that comes to mind is the TBI bolt pattern won't bolt to a Buick intake. Second thing is the associated wiring, it would require a custom chip\ECM for an engine that has different fuel/ air requirements than a stock Chevy V-8 (same problem ran into with dramatic cam charges in a factory TBI engine). Then third using a proper distributor for computer controlled timing to keep the check engine light off (might be by passable with a custom chip). It can be done, but I think the nickel and diming would defeat the $300 deal. I would look at the after market Holley TBI systems. They range in price from $900 to $1500 and are very customizable.  

Thanks for your help . I was actually (sacrilidge)thinking about putting the Chevy TBI in my 64' . I'm still pondering that . I'm not sure if I want the Computor . I imagine that flashing a chip has alot of variables to take into account I don't even have the body on the chassis at the moment . So the conversion is a long way off for sure .

Later this afternoon I found a running driving 71 Buick w/AC  455-4 / 400 , probably a 12 bolt open (that can be fixed right in my range . Only down side is an 800 mile ride there and back . I'm actually leaning towards this if all goes through .

Steve B.

Back in September I picked my T-Bird up 800 miles away and it was worth it (though it plugged the fuel filter every 150-200 miles). Can't go wrong with a GM A-body. Back to the original question, even if you drop the whole Chevy V-8 and TBI in the car you would not have the tunability of the aftermarket systems unless you like paying for custom prom chips. Actually dropping a Chevy engine in the car is as easy as getting small block frame mounts off a chevelle of a similar year, but what's the fun in just putting in a SBC?