In preparation for the swap...
In preparation for the swap we removed the hood and covered the fenders to avoid scratches.
When all was said and done the installation process was the least of our concerns. What really mattered was how the thing performed when we were finished. After following standard procedures for engine break-in we found that the ZZ4 conversion was exactly what this (or any) Third-Generation Camaro needs. The power is smooth and the torque comes in at low rpm and continues well into the 700-R4's shift pattern. For the price this package is one of the best bargains available, and our Third-Gen Camaro now performs better than ever!
Fuelin' Much Better, Doc
Tired engines are only part of the problem with a car that's got some mileage. Years of wear and tear take their toll. The carburetor was one component we knew was causing a few problems.
Before pulling out the old...
Before pulling out the old engine all wiring and hoses were disconnected. Then the engine was unbolted.
The carburetor on our Camaro had a few bad seals, which allowed vacuum leaks. In addition, the choke wasn't quite working properly, making the car hard to start in the mornings. These problems were clear indicators that we wouldn't realize the car's potential with the new engine unless they were fixed.
GM includes new metering rods as part of their kit. We choose to take the new rods and the entire carburetor to the folks at JET for a complete rebuild. This made all the difference and could be part of the reason our car fired on the second crank.
 |  Because removing an engine...  Because removing an engine is nearly the same for all applications, we'll spare the details. We opted to leave most of the accessories in place until the engine was out of the car. |  Nearly every detail was thought...  Nearly every detail was thought of. Even the spark plugs are included with the ZZ4 kit. |
 New exhaust manifolds are...  New exhaust manifolds are part of the ZZ4 conversion. After spraying the manifolds with high-temp paint, we fitted the heat stove. The stove came in two parts and can be welded or riveted together. |  After setting the two engines...  After setting the two engines next to each other we began removing each accessory from the old powerplant. One by one we pulled the components off, cleaned them up, and installed them on the ZZ4. One thing that was not swapped was the EGR valve, which is not required with the new engine (yes, it's still smog legal without it). |  The plug wire heat shields...  The plug wire heat shields and wire separators could be transferred, though the ZZ4 has no accommodations for the wire retainers/shields that were attached to the 305 valve covers. |