My '85 starting point

[peresich]

Originally Posted by Super_Dave

From what I have gathered based on your VIN - and assuming the motor is factory original. If it isn't a previous post tells you where to look on the engine to determine it's correct size: ( http://www.73-87.com/7387info/8187vin.htm )

1GC D C 1 4 D X B F 100001
(where the "D" is above, yours should be either an "L" or "M" for a 350.

1985-86
T = 292 6Cyl
N = 262 V6
H = 305 V8
L = 350 V8
M = 350 V8 Heavy Duty
C = 6.2L V8 Diesel
J = 6.2L V8 Diesel
W = 454 V8

I found an older post that had a link to the service manuals for our trucks and did some digging and found this same information. Judging by the H in my VIN it looks like my truck originally came with the 305 V8. I don't think the guy I bought it from intentionally lied to me about the motor. I think it is an issue of him buying a truck from someone that had it sitting for a while and didn't really know what was in it. I am not too broken up over it. I can make the 305 sing and then swap it out if I decide I need more power later.

Thanks for the advice and the warm welcome guys.