450SLC engine swap
 

Today, while in the used auto parts lot I ran across an 126 500SEL (I believe an '83) that had a good looking engine in it. Now I get to thinking, hmmm, how about droping a 500 in my 107 '78 450 SLC, as it has been done before (if you'll recall the '79 450SLC 5.0). Now I was wondering if anyone had any ideas as to any kinds of problems I might encounter by attempting this feat, or should I just leave the idea alone. The only two concerns I could raise to myself (not knowing the 500 engine all that well) would be a matter of (1)how the motor mounts would align, would it be a straight hookup or would some fabrication be involved and (2) how wold the transmission and drive line on my SLC affect this undertaking? I want to pull my 450 engine and rework the whole thing, it is all original and has valve guide leaks on 2 cylinders, runs strong and reliable, just smokes at times and burns oil. I want to install the 500 engine for the time I have the 450 in parts as so I can still enjoy my baby. Any suggestions or things I should consider? Thanks for your consideration.

Lots of work. Buy yourself a real 5.0/500 SLC instead. You'll have more fun.

Steve Guilford
107 026 12 000677
107 026 12 002053

I think there are enough differences to make a temporary swap impractical.

Lots of luck on finding an original 500 SLC.

Tom W

Thanks guys, thats kind of what I was afraid of, im glad you all could give me the heads up.

Finding a 5.0 or 500 SLC is not that hard. Finding a 9 or 10 point car is another matter. I know of several for sale.

Steve Guilford
107 026 12 000677
107 026 12 002053

What you need to give that 450slc some real punch is a manual 4 spd. that I have. I have everything from the bell housing to the differential for sale.

A used 4.5 motor should be easy to find. Add Kip's 4-speed kit and you'll have a great car.

The problems with the 5.0 conversion are mostly wiring details. If you are able to play with the electronics, it's not that bad. Then add a new exhaust and probably a driveshaft rebuild.

-CTH

This is the way to go, clean up and improve the effeciency of what you have, the new exhaust, engine rebuild and put a shift kit in your trans, etc., and you will have less money and more car and fun this way.

My friend bought a 1980 450SLC 5.0 car from Stuttgart, used in '85. Got it federalized and had a good independent shop, help him keep it. A lot of specialized parts for that 5.0 Litre engine, but more commonality than I thought. A nice fast car, when running right. :)