Engine replacement in 89

[Lincv8]

I'm 90% convinced to replace my 112k mile 305 original engine in my 89.

Probably going to put in an ATK 350ci 290 HP.

They have the engine fully dressed or long block. Fully dressed includes carb that is NOT injected like my original so  needing to remove the ECM.

Opinions ! on removing ECM or just getting the long block and putting my Carb and distributer on new engine..

Thoughts appreciated. Its a winter project.

Edited 19 hours ago by Lincv8

[ronmanfredi]

It would probably perform better without the ECM.  The transmission lock up converter is controlled by the ECM so when you remove it, you lose the lock up converter.  Some people will tell you that you can put in a manual switch and activate the converter lock up every time it goes into 4th gear.  For me, that's a bunch of activity that I don't want to deal with, so I'd invest in the kit that goes into the transmission valve body which automatically locks up the converter in 4th gear.  While that's being done, you can change the transmission filter also.

[mfg]

20 minutes ago, ronmanfredi said:

It would probably perform better without the ECM.  The transmission lock up converter is controlled by the ECM so when you remove it, you lose the lock up converter.  Some people will tell you that you can put in a manual switch and activate the converter lock up every time it goes into 4th gear.  For me, that's a bunch of activity that I don't want to deal with, so I'd invest in the kit that goes into the transmission valve body which automatically locks up the converter in 4th gear.  While that's being done, you can change the transmission filter also.

A manual switch controlling the torque converter lockup is the smart play!

The factory ECM seemed to lockup the converter in my own ‘83 Avanti way too early.. and some aftermarket kit just might do the same!

if flipping a console mounted switch is too tiring, perhaps going to bed earlier would help?