Ok so I have this 1985 firebird v6 auto i'm not looking for a big v8 I'm fairly happy with just having this torquester, but acceleration is fine until I hit that brick wall I mean zero top end. I am looking into a complete rebuild and a 5 speed transmission. My main concerns are the labor behind that, time, and green...and is it a project even worth preforming?

I've never really done this before, besides helping my buddy rebuild his f150 transmission and putting on a new clutch, just childs play, so I need to know what I'm getting into.

Is this project going to be costly?
Any recomendations on where I could find the RIGHT parts?
Is it worth it? or should I go with a V8 swap?
I'd like a V8 but I'm guessing that a rebuild would be cheaper. I'm not oppossed to spending money but I'd like to save it where I can!

Thanks a bunch guys!
Stephen King  

Save youself the headache of rebuilding. For $1100.00 go to Paceperformance.com (pace pontiac in niles ohio) and get a brand new 2.8 engine. The engine will say it is for a 87 - 89 firebird.  The only difference is this new engine is internally balanced.  You can not reuse the 1985 flywheel or harmonic balancer. The new engine comes with both. You will how ever need to use you 1985 oilpan.  with this engine, you can reuse all of your topend mpfi and computer.  I did not reuse my computer and rewired the entire car with a painless wire harness (18 circuit GM column). with computer elimination,You can achieve 200 hp out of the 2.8 with an new Comp Cam (several to choose from), Eldelbrock intake, headers holly 390 cfm four barrel, mallory distributer and good exhaust (Recomend flowmaster 40 or 44 series). an average buit 350 will cost you a min of $3500 just for the long block rebuilt and cast iron heads. Don't underestimate a 2.8 v-6 alot of those engines went into s-10's any many other gm vehicles. Save youself some gas money unless you are building a dragstrip car. If you choose to rebuild you current v-6, buy the book (how to rebuild your GM V-6 60 degree engine by Tom Currao) This book is pricey 60 - 90 dollars because it is not in print anymore, but it is worth every penny if you decide to rebuild. Keep you 700 r4 automatic trans, to switch would involve some enginering and fabrication, some of the changes would be expensive clutch pedals, slave cylinders, new flywheel mounts just to name a few. Remember, anything can be done to you vehicle with unlimited time and money. You need to decide what you want you vehicle to do for you and research and run with. My opionion is not the only one or the best one for you. Good luck on your project, and most importantly, have fun building it!!!

Dave