Which cradle for 3.8 swap? (Page 1/1)
scrabblegod FEB 09, 11:55 PM
Was going to order a spare cradle today to use in my build. I was not aware there were 3 different cradles for 86-87.
Our interchange system list, 4 cyl auto, 4 cyl man heavy duty/6 cyl and 4 cyl man light duty.
What are the differences, and is any one better then the others for the 3800 swap?
The one in my car now is the 1986 Auto.
Spadesluck FEB 10, 12:43 PM
I was only aware of 2 different cradles, 84-87 and the 88's. 88 cradle is viewed as the best cradle to use as it has the better suspension setup from the factory. Many topics on this along with some debates. I personally went with an 88 cradle on my swapped 87 car.
Raydar FEB 11, 07:43 PM
Skip the 4 cylinder auto. It'll work, too, but it has an additional shelf on the left side rail for the goofy uni-mount that later automatic Dukes (86 and later?) used.
It shouldn't be in the way of anything, if that's all you can find. That cradle is also drilled for the usual front/rear trans brackets.
I was not aware of a "heavy duty" vs "light duty" cradle of any sort.

[This message has been edited by Raydar (edited 02-11-2023).]

Frenchrafe FEB 12, 03:33 AM
If you are going for a 3800 with a bit more power and torque than stock, then I would recommend beefing up the front gearbox mount on the subframe.
Mine cracked and could have eventually ripped the bolts out!
You'll need to be able to fabricate and weld though😉

If you're interested, I did 3 videos on subframe mods:
https://youtu.be/y0jCOt9fyJ4
https://youtu.be/LExUCcdfJ3M
https://youtu.be/4zv6GkI_hvs

Cheers,

------------------
"Turbo Slug" - '87 Fiero GT. 3800 turbo. - The fastest Fiero in France!
https://youtu.be/c4Cu7_2OgYc
https://www.youtube.com/cha...1wZvWQlkYxTjivW_0XNg

scrabblegod FEB 12, 05:27 PM
This is the second time I have heard of problems with the trans mount area.
I have a welder and just sprung for a good size plasma cutter, so I will reinforce the area.