You know what they say about opinions? Well, I'd like to know yours.

[jgrote]

Well, I can't leave well enough alone. I have a "problem" and I'm going to throw money at it. Currently, my truck has a 350/350 combo, and no telling what gear in it. (None of the running gear is original.) It has an Eddy carb, and electric FP on it. It also has some HEI in it, but it looks like it's probably an Amazon special. (Works fine though.) It's running way too rich, and gets terrible mileage. like5-6 MPG. And it stinks like gas a lot. (Not leaking anywhere.) The motor seems sound, but definitely isn't new. I was having some dieseling issues, but some Seafoam, plugs, and a good Italian tune-up seems to have fixed it.

So... My options.

1) Holley Sniper and a rear mounted tank. This is the easiest option, as I can do most of the work in stages, while still able to use the truck. (Tank, wiring, fuel pump, etc.) I could be down for a weekend or less. But, I still would have a old engine, 3sp trans, and a reasonable top speed of about 65. Anything more, and she feels wound to the moon. But, suspension and braking also limit this as well.

2) 5.3 and 4L60 swap. Money isn't THAT tight, but I'd still have to go the JY route. In my area, everything is 4wd, so I'd need to do a tailshaft swap. I would do a minor refresh on the motor, but I'm not interested in rebuilding it. If the one I find has DOD, I'd obviously do a cam and lifters to do away with it. I'll probably run Holley for management. The biggest downside is down time. I'm afraid this can turn into a boondoggle that takes me months to finish. I don't have months. I know I can gather parts, clean and modify the engine/trans, and get the fuel system in place first, but it is still a lot of work. And I don't own an engine hoist anymore (and don't really want to.) I feel like this is the better way to spend my money, but I think it may be too big a job for me right now.

3) And out of left field, there's one more option. I happen to have a 57 Belair that is sitting in my garage, with the front clip already removed. It's been parked in a garage since the early 70s. It has a 1969 327 in it, which I did get running not too long ago. It built oil pressure, and didn't smoke at all. I pulled the valve covers, and it honestly looks like it's brand new in there. So, should I throw the 327 in the truck, and then EFI that engine? The only downside I see in this choice is that it's a little more work (2 engine swaps), and it doesn't get me an extra gear on the trans. The 57 is for sale, so I need to make a decision before I sell it.