It's a fact, my engine is cracked

[JonnyTechMech]

Well it was all good during the summer. But when a cold spell came through in Nov. I got caught slippin. It was below freezing for about a week and I raise my hand as say I did it… “I did not confirm that I had enough antifreeze in the truck”! Now the block is cracked !!!! Looks like someone took a 10lb slug to it, on both sides just above the oil pan. It’s what I get for working two gigs and not paying close attention to everything.

Well….Game ON!!!! I need some practical advice and prices of a potential 350 engine I plan to replace my scraped 305. I was going to drop a 327 with Vortec heads and all mods necessary. But I don’t have time for that. I don’t have money for a LT model as well. So I’m going for a Vortec 350 model 90-98; if they exist that late. So please lend me your idea’s on junkyard searches (what to look for/identify) or reasonable priced creates. I’m sticking with the TBI and the 90 models only; unless 2000-02 offer something I can just drop in with minimal changes. I looking to spend in the range of $800 -1000.00 on the long block alone. I hope to get the “Intake and TBI” with it but not get taken for a ride at the junk yard; so I need to now the average price of such a motor.

My don’t list:
Don’t want a BB.
“ “ “ a SB bigger than a 400.
“ “ “ another 305
“ “ “ change to Carb
“ “ “ change to TPI
“ “ “ older model SB
“ “ “ nothin but a chevy

Why the limitations and being picky, Well….. I’m on a budget, need a quick and easy drop in, want to keep moderate MPG, and I want to upgrade while I have the opportunity.


So lets have it!!! Teach me somethin new! What would you do?

Thanks in advance.