Anyone upgraded from 350 to 454 TBI? Seeking Tips!

I went with a Hypertech chip. It made my throttle response so much better, plus I’m seeing improved fuel economy!

I just completed the swap last week! I found that installing an upgraded cold air intake helped with improvements too. It really lets the 454 breathe better!

Awesome! Any issues with fitting the new intake? I’m worried about space since my engine bay is a bit cramped.

No major issues, just had to tweak a few hose placements. You can also support the new setup with better exhaust headers! It really rounds out the performance improvements.

Does anyone know the ideal spark plug gap for the 454 TBI? I want to ensure I’m getting the best combustion possible after the upgrade.

I believe it’s around 0.045 inches, but double-check your specific setup. It can make a difference with the TBI upgrade!

I’ve read mixed things about the tuning process after upgrading to the 454 TBI. Some say it’s necessary while others claim it’s optional. What’s the consensus?

Tuning is highly recommended! It helps in maximizing your performance upgrades. Don’t skip it!

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It’s all about personal preference. You can get by without tuning, but if you’re looking for serious power gain, I’d say go for it. Just make sure your wallet is ready!

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I’ve upgraded from a 350 to a 454 TBI and it was a game changer! Make sure to have the right tools, like a torque wrench and basic hand tools, ready before you start. It’ll save you a lot of frustration.

That’s great to hear! Any tips on the wiring? I’ve heard it can get tricky.

Thanks for that! How about the fuel delivery system? Any modifications needed?

You may need to upgrade your fuel pump to handle the increased demand. It’s a common pitfall if you want optimal performance.

I upgraded the fuel pump too, and it made a big difference! Just be cautious with the fuel lines; ensure they are compatible with higher pressure!

I’ve been considering this; any recommended brands?

I recommend ACDelco for reliability. It’s well-known in our community for working well with TBI setups.

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Good to know! I just hope this swap goes smoothly. Any tips on avoiding common mistakes during installation?

Make sure to clean all surfaces thoroughly before installation. A lot of people forget this step and end up with leaks!

I’ll definitely do that! Any suggestions on gaskets to use?

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Always use a good quality silicone gasket. It seals better and can handle the TBI’s heat well without degrading.