I just bought 79 Transam with 403 Olds motor that had recent rebuild with "RV" cam would like to replace heads and intake along with the Slober Jet carb! Recommendations?

What is your end goal for the motor and the car? Street cruiser? Street/Strip? All out racer?

Your wallet will dictate the modes at that point too. 

Here is an old Hot Rod/Car Craft article about the 403. It outlines some budget friendly recommendations.....a new intake, carb, different heads, and headers. Ignition upgrade might also help.

Also, check your rear gear ratio. A lot of Trans Am had tall gears that were very highway friendly (like 2.xx to 1). You may need to switch to something smaller like 3.23:1 gear if you make too much more power with your motor. You simply will not be able to get out of the hole/off the line with that tall a gear.

https://www.hotrod.com/how-to/ccrp-1105-oldsmobile-403-engine

 

 Does this help or do you want more recommendations?

Edited June 3, 20251 yr by Frosty

Yes the rear end ratio needs to be changed! Just trying to get a nice cruiser with good HP and sound!

I think you will do well with the mods the article and video share, assuming the bottom end of the 403 is solid. I think a 3.08 or 3.23 rear gear would help your TA too. Nothing outrageously and it won't hurt fuel economy too bad.

I agree and for now I'm going to do headers and set of flow thru mufflers and save up for Aluminum Edelbrock  heads and manifold! Thanks for advice 

slober jet LOL i havent heard that one before. welcome to the site nice car

What we used to call them back in 70s!

Quadrajunk i have heard before but not slober jet!