Before I start I should state that I'm a suspension and body guy so I know nothing about engine harnesses and computers. My question is could I just toss the 3.8 computer and harness or would I have to swap it with something else and if so what?
the engine going in the car will be a carbed 408w.
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Ryan, you can toss the electronics if you go carburetor. A good intake with a holly 650 or 750 double pumper will make you very happy. I like the 408 configuration, is it from a 351w worked out??? You have my curiosity up. I have built many engines but I like the 408 configuration, it reminds me of the many Chevy 406s I have built.

 

Depends on your state and what you plan on doing with the car? Daily Driver? Check emissions laws first.

Some states allow engine swaps but only so long as you're putting a newer engine into an older car, not the other way around due to emissions. The new engine would need to meet or exceed emissions standards for the year car it's going into.

Also, if your state requires OBDI or II systems to be present on a car that originally came with it, you may not be able to go the direction you want if the car is going to be a DD. THe only way in that situation is to have it registered as an Off-road vehicle (like not eligible to drive on any streets legally). If you get caught driving it on the road in those situations you will be fined and could have the car impounded (like Nazifornia (california).