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Big Block Chevy, Big Block Chevy Serpentine Conversion

How to Run Affordable SBC Serpentine Parts on Your BBC

The featured image explains this guide will tell you how to run affordable small block chevy serpentine parts on your big block chevy.

Wayne Powell |

Let’s face it: finding factory accessory brackets for a Big Block Chevy (BBC) is getting harder and more expensive. Meanwhile, every local salvage yard is overflowing with Small Block Chevy (SBC) serpentine systems from 1988 through some 2013 trucks.

At Kwik Performance, we’ve perfected a way to bridge that gap. With our adapter systems, you can bolt those lightweight, modern SBC brackets directly onto your Big Block.

Step 1: Identify Your Donor Small Block Chevy Brackets

Look at the truck you took the parts from: 

  • Early SBC (1988-1995 V8 and 4.3L V6): These came from TBI (Throttle Body Injection) engines. They have the R4 AC compressor on the passenger's side.
  • Late SBC (1996-2000 V8, 1996-2013 4.3L V6): These are from "Vortec" style engines (4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L). They have the AC compressor on the driver's side.

Step 2: The "Crank Pulley" Decision

This is where you save time or money: 

  • Scenario A: I have the SBC Crank Pulley. This is the most common scenario. you need an integrated BBC Serpentine Conversion Kit that includes our precision-machined crank pulley adapter. 
  • Scenario B: I have a factory 454 serpentine crank pulley. In this case, you only need our base adapter plates. K10014 for adding early (1988-1995) SBC V8 / V6 serpentine brackets to your BBC engine. Or K10270 for adding later (1996+) SBC brackets.

The Kwik-Reference Selection Grid

A grid showing which Kwik Performance Big Block Chevy Brackets you need based on which small block chevy parts you're attempting to add to your build

Step 3: Required Supplemental Hardware

To ensure belt alignment and cooling efficiency, the following parts are mandatory for all conversions: 

  • Water Pump: You must use a reverse rotation big block chevy water pump (standard on 1988-1999 454 truck engines). 
  • Water Pump Pulley: A smooth (non-ribbed) water pump pulley is required. Your SBC donor from 1988-1995 will have the correct pulley. If you have a later donor (1996+) you will need a GM part number 19418445 or equivalent, also available from Kwik Performance. 
  • Thermostat Housing: A swivel-style water neck is recommended to provide clearance for the SBC alternator position. 
  • Belt Length: Due to the wider deck height of the big block, a longer serpentine belt will be required than what was stock on the small block donor. See our installation instructions provided in your kit for suggested lengths and Gates part numbers. 

Technical Support

If you are unsure of your engine generation give us a call at 417-955-1467.