FE-FC Holden Discussion Forum

Hi just wondering with the new rego laws would you still be able to put a chev 283 motor 2 speed powerglide Volvo diff into a fc Holden Ute any help appreciated Rod67

Rod,

Assuming you're running under NCOP legislation,
FE/FC's were (sadly) originally under 1100kg, so engine limit is original mass (kg) x 4.0 = max. capacity in cc’s, assuming naturally aspirated. If they were 1100kg or heavier from the factory, the limit would be original mass (kg) x 5.0 = max. capacity in cc’s. Holdens didn't come out this heavy until the FB though.

The mass of the vehicle referred to is the original (unmodified) tare mass of the model vehicle fitted with the largest engine available for the model in Australia but without optional accessories (air conditioning, tow bars etc.). The mass of the vehicle, whether it is a sedan, station wagon, utility, etc., should be based on the heaviest sedan version of the model (not station wagon version) sold in Australia. For FC's this is the business sedan (2417lb = 1096kg... damn close to 1100kg!), assuming the values in the Workshop Manual are correct and that the engineer will accept that tare mass is the same as curb mass.


This gives 1096 x 4 = 4384cc (268ci) naturally aspirated... at least as the initial starting point.

There are some ways around this - for example registering as a commercial vehicle, or an ICV, or finding an engineer who is willing to work outside the reccomendations (not mandatory portions) of the NCOP. However, this route is not always easy and take an "understanding" engineer to approve. Not to say it's can't be done, or that many are not currently approving much larger engines... just that you will have to work harder to do so.

Cheers,
Harv

Thank you Harv for the information have to change plans now .Rod67

If you have your heart set on that motor, talk to an engineer before changing plans. Some engineers are more understanding than others.

you may also want to look into street rod reg or club reg
if you drive 90 days or less a year
then you can go upto to 460ci with certain approvals