1983 and an I6
 

Hi -My sons friend has a 83 short wide with an I6 and a TH350.

The motor is about ready to blow up from what I hear. I have a few questions.

We are in CA (keep in mind) and he wants to convert to a small block and just get it smogged illegally.
I say put another 6 in it and look for another small block truck. Only issue is that the truck isn't worth rebuilding the 6, I'd look for a good used one from someones swap (anyone have one?).

What motor is in it and what car motors would work in its place?

Re: 1983 and an I6
 

More than likely it has a 250 in it or possibly a 292. If you install any motor other than the original you run into different mounts, exhaust, and etc. May not be a cheap way to go.

Re: 1983 and an I6
 

It will cost more to convert to a V-8 than rebuilding the 6. It's getting more difficult to find people who will write an illegal smog report. If you're really interested in not having to deal with smog equipment, try and find a truck that is '75 or older. Back in the day I was a mechanic with a smog license, and had people who wanted me to pass it through the system when it didn't pass. Doing so would leave me in a position of possibly paying fines and losing my personal freedom. Ain't nobody or amount of money worth that, to me. YMMV