Old schooler going new skewl

[leftybass209]

If you are sure it was a late 80's car, then there couldn't be any way it's an LS engine. Rather, you most likely have some other engine model code, such as LT-1 for instance, which is much more associated with old-school gen I sbc's in relation to the LS engines.

Does it have electronics above the valve covers? Does it look like a SBC or does it look like a new aluminum motor?

In that respect, staying with a gen I or II SBC would put you miles ahead. The crate engine suggestion is spot on. You can rob most of the functioning accessories and extras from what you currently have or what's on the truck, and have a 0 mile motor for pennies what it would cost to rebuild a SBC (if that's what the motor you have truly is).

Pictures always help!!!!!!