Help me decide on an engine...

[HugoV]

Hi guys and gals!

I need some help with deciding on one of two engines...

Because of my budget I am not willing/able to upgrade to something different...



First engine is the original 230 inline 6 with a 3 speed on the floor.

OR

a 305 out of an 85' Monte Carlo... has headers and full exhaust, comes with power steering etc.


Both run well.


Can you all chime in on pros and cons please!?


again, it will be one of the two...


Also, I don't have a tranny for the 305, what tranny would you guys recommend?


THanks!!

[aerotruk63]

What setup do you have in the truck right now?

[Tshort1]

Stick with the 230 I6 and 3 speed if you have a limited budget. It is a proven reliable engine. The 305 on the other hand does not have the best history for being reliable, actually one of Chevys worst motors IMO. run the I6 Until you can get a 350/700r4 combo. Good luck with your build.

[HugoV]

Originally Posted by aerotruk63

What setup do you have in the truck right now?

I had the 6 in there but it's out right now to paint the frame etc..


Here is something I could also do...

Sell both and that will get me closer to the 350/700r4 combo.....

What could I get that combo out of? as in what year of car or truck etc...

[spacedebris]

I agree with Tshort1 on this one. Sick with the 230. Drive and enjoy the truck until you save enough to get the 350 if that is your ultimate goal. I can tell you from experience that it is torture to have your truck siting while doing an engine swap. The I6 is very reliable and will help with saving money for the upgrade. The 305 will eat up cash that could otherwise be put toward your 350 upgrade.

[jimmydean]

I have a soft spot for a well done 6. There have been a few on here that are incredible.

[HugoV]

Ok, I hear you guys! My first inclination was to stick with the 6....


How about recommendations on finding a 350 and tranny combo?

out of what car?

[spacedebris]

Most full size cars (caprice and the like) as well as F body cars (camaro/firebird) from the 80's. Also most full size trucks from the 80's as well.


I also know that my 89 s15 Jimmy (s10 Blazer) had the 700r4 but only had a 4.3 v6.

[Tshort1]

Search Craig's list for a 350 they are not that hard to find, and you want an 87 or newer 700r4 as they have a bigger input shaft and are more reliable. If you don't need the 4th gear/overdrive then a 350 or 400 turbo are also good options but seem to be getting harder to find.

[LVPhotos]

You can get a decent rebuilt 350 at any autoparts store. E-bay,or look at local shops. I found my 400 in a trash can at my axle guys shop. Was in a track car that got wrecked.