Engine options? Threw a Rod.

[Mullet863]

So, my 65 Suburban, "Rusty Betty" as I nicknamed her, made it about 60 miles since purchase before throwing a rod and totally seizing up. I'm going to attack the engine this weekend, but I'm not hopeful.

I went into this "project" not knowing a lot and it appears I'm in over my head, but I'm not going to give up.

What are my options as far as engines, I have a few options in the area, either a rebuilt stock 350, a 327, or ????

Definitely not happy with the amount of money I've already dropped on this thing, but like I said I'm not giving up. I'm looking to keep this part of the project around 2k.

[65sub]

small block (283, 327, 350) is probably the cheapest to build. What engine blew up. Changing from a I6 to a V8 does take some adapting

[Mullet863]

Originally Posted by 65sub

small block (283, 327, 350) is probably the cheapest to build. What engine blew up. Changing from a I6 to a V8 does take some adapting

It was a 350 Small Block. Probably mid 70s I believe.

[ptc]

Option 1 - Rebuild what you have, fix whats broke and no more. With machine shop work if theres much damage and then a few parts to replace, rod, bearings, piston(s) and gaskets. That will probably eat the $2K budget quick.

Option 2 - find and buy a replacement used runner engine, 305, 327, 350 can be had for pretty cheap and if you know what youre looking at they can be a decent deal. If you can find anything with less than 100K miles you'd be doing good at about $1000 and then do a freshen up on it with the other $1000. You dont need machine work , just a hone job if youre doing rings. BEarings, gaskets and and maybe Cam it and youre good to go.

I just got a deal on a complete BBC 502" with TH400 trans for $2500.... its a runner!

[scuderia]

been looking around the last week or so and it would seem that you can find a decent motor for no more than a grand... just make sure you can hear it run before you purchase and do a compression test and or leak down. lots of guys pulling decent motors for LS swaps out there. Be patiant and good luck.
If you aren't stuck on an 8 there's a lot of straight sixes out there for a few hundred $$. Check the for sale section good guys here on the forum.

[chevy_mike]

Drop in a new GM crate engine and swap your parts (intake, exhaust, etc.) over. $1500 with free shipping from Summit Racing.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/GM-10067353-...tV~WuI&vxp=mtr

[Mullet863]

Thoughts on a big block? My burb is 4x4 right now, I honestly don't know about the tranny (looking into it) but I've found one for 1250 might be able to get him down to 1k. http://ocala.craigslist.org/pts/5259409216.html

[earl84]

I swapped in a 454, turned out to be a lot more work and a lot more difficult than I figured. I really like it, but if you want to get this done quickly and without lots of head scratching and little expenses that will add up, I would go with a replacement 350. You already know everything works, fits perfectly, no modifications required.
If it were me, I would go with chevy mike's suggestion and get the engine from Summit. Easiest and most economical route, and for the most part, your budget is set and won't continue to grow with unexpected stuff that is bound to pop up.

[Clyde65]

You have to do whats best for your budget, skill level and needs. A crate v8 would be your quickest and probably easiest option.

I did the LSx swap and have never regreted doing it. Its not for everyone but 21mpg and reliability is a huge plus.

[71swb4x4]

A big block into a 4x4 is going to be more difficult than a big block into a 2wd. You have to make sure the oil pan clears the front differential during suspension travel. I am not sure about a 1965 but in the 67-72 years the 4x4 engines are close to the firewall as it is (to clear the front diff), getting a big block in that close to the firewall can be challenging and require firewall massaging.
You have a lot more "weak links" when putting a big block into a 4x4. Imagine all the things down stream that could break on a 4x4 vs a 2wd.

[padresag]

you can check this link which is a good one . Jon is putting a 396(still BB) into a converted 4 x 4 which will give you an idea. you will more than likely blow your budget if you go this way and a bit more work to it
think the eng stuff starts on page 4.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=448681

ron

[Captainfab]

Converting to a big block is going to blow your $2K budget, plus it won't just drop right in. I would just keep it simple and go with a GM 350 crate engine. That will drop right in and all your accessories will bolt up, exhaust, radiator hoses, etc. Then you will have a new engine with a warranty that you won't have to worry about for a long time.

[padresag]

here is this just posted tonight
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=685758
ron