200 bellhousing/ transmission options

[Anonymous]

I have a 1980 3.3/ 200 six with I believe the earlier bellhousing config. The starter is under the manifold, not lower like a SBF. The auto is a C4? or is it a C3 or C5?? 3 speed any way.

1. Is it feasible to mod a std. bellhousing to take a 4 speed Top loader or should I scrounge for a 250 w/ a SBF bolt pattern?
2. Would a 300 six be a better choice? Hood clearance is not an issue.
3. Are there any aftermarket torque converters for the 3.3/ 200 C4 combo?
4. What about flywheel/ clutch issues?

I'd really prefer a 4 speed. Any comments are appreciated!

 

[matt1967]

check the block for EO casting codes, if they are, then you have a Big Bell 200, and altho you will need a flywheel for a manual 200 CI engine, you can make most any SBF trans work, and that opens up possibilities for torque converters also.

 

[wallaka]

If the starter mounts above the oil pan line, it's the early style. Also, like Matt said, the casting code on the block should be E0BB-something. It's located under the exhaust manifold.

 

[matt1967]

yep, left side of engine, about dead center, almost directly below 2 of the freeze plugs.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanx for the info guys...I'll get back with ya.

...OK, it's a D8BE-GE 3.3/200 (car was built 5/80)...bummer Guess I'll be looking for a 250 or 300.

 

[wallaka]

Won't a 3.03 bellhousing also fit a Top Loader? I know that the later 200's also were available with a SROD. It might fit, I don't know.

 

[mustang6]

Yes, if it's a high mount starter then a regular old 3.03 3-speed bellhousing will bolt right up with a Toploader 4 speed or Toploader 3 speed + overdrive. I've done that swap many times, no change in driveline length from the 3 speed either. Only thing to remember is the plastic speedo gear needs to be changed out for a 4 speed gear, they are cut opposite directions.

 

[matt1967]

Thanx for the info guys...I'll get back with ya.

...OK, it's a D8BE-GE 3.3/200 (car was built 5/80)...bummer Guess I'll be looking for a 250 or 300.

D8 is a '78 motor, it's been swapped at some point.

 

[wallaka]

Not necessarily...it might have been left over in the parts bin when the car came down the assembly line.

 

[Anonymous]

Casting # (Block part#) is on the right side, above the oil pan. So I have one of the 200's before the change to the E0 block.
Honestly, what kind of horsepower can you expect from a fully prepped 200 with alum. head? I'm thinking 250-300 N/A
I'm looking for 400+. Do you think this engine will hold together with a power adder? i.e.- NOS? ...or should I just go with a 300 six.