Engine selection

[BTMDOUT]

Ok guys, I am ready for some power for my square. Which way is the best route, a 6.0 and tranny from salvage yard or bite the bullet and buy a new gm engine with warranty? All suggestions appreciated. Thanks

[thefraze_1020]

If money was not an issue, I'd say get a crate motor from GM, because you have no idea what kind of shape wrecking yard engines are in.

On the other hand, if you're budget is tight, you could get a wrecking yard engine and rebuild it, thoroughly check everything out, and build it how you want it.

[rich weyand]

Here's a few options that I know about. I tend to buy new, do it once, and not have to worry about it any more. Others like shopping salvage for deals and working things up from there. They can tell you about those.

1) GM "350/290hp" crate engine 19244450. Don't bother. It's a 350/260hp with the cam out of a 1967 Corvette. That's an old grind, and designed for high-compression heads. You will have very low dynamic compression at low rpms, resulting in anemic torque numbers. In the top half of the rpm range, or on a much lighter vehicle, it can be fun, but it's not the best choice for our trucks. BTDT.

2) Stock GM "350/260hp" crate engine 10067353. Solid engine that responds well to some induction improvements. It has the low-compression heads, which is OK for a torquer, which is what you need in a truck anyway. For $1500 delivered, it's hard to beat for a new engine. Add an Edelbrock Performer dual-plane manifold #2101 and Hooker headers (2452 for a C; 2453 for a K) and rebuild your Qjet for best performance. Under $2000.

3) First step up. Same as (2) above, but void the warranty -- those engines are bulletproof in street use anyway -- and install a Comp Cams 12-235-2 camshaft. On a never-run engine, you can use the same springs and lifters, just pop the valve covers to release the pushrods, pull the lifters, install the new cam. Reassemble. Runs regular gas. 290 hp at 4000 and 415 lbft of torque at 2500. Still under $2000.

4) Second step up. Same as (2) above, but pull the heads. Install Comp Cams 12-238-2 cam (a longer-duration version of the 12-235-2) and Dart 127121 performance heads (with 9.5:1 compression and oversize valves). Might respond better to premium gas. 360 hp at 5000 and 425 lbft of torque at 2500. Will wind to 6000 rpm. Under $3200.

Oh, and for (3) and (4), make sure you use a transmission that can handle 425 lbft of torque. A late-model built 700R4 would be nice, with a 3.78:1 rear end you will still get pretty good gas mileage. Maybe something from these guys: http://transmissioncenter.net/

So there's my best options in new engines without breaking the bank. I'm sure others will have recommendations for salvage pulls that might work for you as well.

[y5mgisi]

Is it 2wd or 4wd? what is your intended usage for the truck?

[Dead Parrot]

I did Option 2 several years ago and have been happy. I substituted a Performer 1405 in place of the Qjet but only because every Qjet I have ever used started leaking from the front casting plug on the filter housing.

[king-918]

4.8,5.3, or 6.0 is what I would do if I din't waste soo much on my old 350

[BTMDOUT]

No no

[BTMDOUT]

Thanks guys. The truck is 2wd. I intend on driving it, but not a dd. kinda got in my head that I want a 6.0, lots of options for huge improvements. No, not loads of money , just want to spend it wisely. I've done my share of engine swaps, this one has very nice paint, don't want to do any more than I have to.

[izzy_Britton]

I think for the money the best route is wrecking yard.

If you are patient you chould be able to locate a good 6.0 with low(ish) miles. The biggest concern to me is the computer, wiring, and transmission.

because of this i am going the carborated route, eldebrock intake, carb, and MSD ignition box. this will cost me less than $1,200 out of pocket. I am using my 700r4, and existing carb.

I was able to score a 5.3 with 11k miles on it for $450 at a local wrecker. the intake and ignition box will come from summit or another similar online supplier.

bottom line, keep your eyes peeled and something will come along within your budget.

Izzy

[rich weyand]

FYI, looking at Comp Cams site, I see that they say not to use stock springs with the 12-235-2. Apparently you need a little more spring for that lift. So what I said above is not true for the springs -- you do need to change those.

[andrewmp6]

If its a daily driver i would go ls or diesel,If its a weekend toy id go big block.