i have a 1985 buick regal it is not running and was given to me from my grandparents but there is a broken rod. I was thinking of replacing that 3.8L engine with a 305,but what else would i have to change with it? and do you have recommendations with what? tranny? ecm? do i have to change suspension? etc?
Should bolt right in with little alterations. However I would not mess with installing a 305. Install a 350 instead. It will cost you about the same amount of money and you will be much happier with the results. In the upgrade you may want to also consider upgrading the transmission. The Buick Regal with the 3.8L engine used a 200-R4 transmission. This is the same transmission used in the Grand National so it may work with a stock 350. It will bolt up to the 350. However if you do any modifications to this engine this transmission may not be up to the task. The old turbo 350 would work if you can find one. This would be an easy upgrade if you use a stock or mildly built 350. A little better upgrade would be a 700-R4 transmission. This is more equivalent to the old Turbo 400 transmission. It can take a little more torque than the Turbo 350 and is a 4 speed automatic. This may cost you a little more money. This transmission is readily available. It was used in late 80s to late 90s light duty trucks. With either transmission you will require a custom drive shaft. But if you keep with a stock or mildly built 350 you can still use a steel drive shaft which will cost less.
