Help choosing a Motor?

[rick0312]

I am at the point in my rebuild where I have to decide on a motor. My truck will primarily be used on the weekends only. I won't be hauling heavy items just some light use back and forth from the hardware store. I have it narrowed down to two GM crate motors. Maybe you guys can help me with my decision. see info below:


#1 350 250h/p
This is a great entry-level replacement engine for older cars and trucks, and a great basic street rod engine. All of the parts in this engine are “Brand New”.

350 Cubic inches 4.00" Bore, 3.47" stroke

8.5:1 compression ratio.

250 HP @4300 rpm

350 ft. lbs of torque @ 3600 rpm

(These Numbers obtained with a Quadra jet Carb, 15/8" headers, and an Edelbrock Performer intake part # 2101)

Engine consists of the following parts:

Block -part # 10066034, casting # 10066036

2 piece rear main seal 4 bolt main

Crankshaft- part # 3932444

Nodular Iron 1985 and older flywheel bolt pattern.

Powdered Metal Connecting rods- Part # 10108688

Cast Aluminum Pistons- part#12514101

G.M. High Volume Pump Oil Pump- part # 12555284

Hydraulic Flat tappet Camshaft- Part#3863151

Intake Lift-.383" Exhaust Lift-.401"

Intake Duration @ .050"- 194 Exhaust Duration @ .050"- 202

Lobe Seperation-112

This cam Has a mechanical Fuel Pump Lobe.

This is a low end Torque oriented camshaft.

Cylinder Heads- part # 14034808, casting #33417369, 1.94" Intake valve, 1.50" Exhaust Valve, 76cc Combustion Chamber, 7 Bolt style Exhaust Flange Standard, 85' and prior intake manifold bolt pattern. Perimeter bolt style Valve Covers. This head is very similar to the old #882 castings from the 1970's

#2 350 290h/p
The HP 290 horsepower will provide great durability because of its 4-bolt mains, PM steel rods, strong cast aluminum pistons.
The camshaft has .450" intake and .460" exhaust lift with hydraulic flat tappets.
The cast iron cylinder heads have 1.94" intake and 1.50" exhaust valves wit 76 cc combustion chamber. These heads have the conventional 90 degree with 12 bolt intake manifold attaching design used from 1955 thru late 1980 12 bolt postion @ 90° to the intake/headflange.
This engine was designed to work with the following components:
intake manifold 10185063.
HEI distributor 93440806.
balancer 12551537.
flex plate 471529.
Bolt on the starter,water pump, fuel pump, and your ready to run.