1967 GMC V6 - 351E on a Camper Cruiser

[5Tractorguy]

From a small engine mechanic standpoint... I had a late 80's Briggs 8hp engine that got the screw treatment, someone dropped one down the cylinder and it imprinted itself in the head about a dozen times. Cylinder was a bit scored bit it still ran great.

If the scoring is only 1/32 and minimal, personally I'd just run it! You wouldn't believe some of the scoring in tractor engines that I pull apart and they still get used on a weekly basis.

I have a 351 V6 in my '61 5000 flat bed. Nearest I figure, it's gets about 7-8 MPG loaded or empty and not being conservative with the gas pedal. Has the 2 barrel Stromberg WW.

From what I gather, 351's are hard to get internal parts for vs. the 305's. I thought there was someone reproducing pistons, but don't hold me to it. There are guys that have adapted more modern carburetors to them... 4 barrels and what not. You could try that to improve efficiency and power.

Anyways, it would be pretty cool to see that engine remain in the truck being original. But if you do decide to replace it, I may be interested in it...

[Blue Sage]

Hi Jake, Thanks for the thorough analysis. Apparently even a modern V8 with electronic ignition and fuel injection isn't going to give me 15 plus milage without which I can't really use it being on a fixed income etc.

I changed out the transaxle to a more efficient ratio and dropped the old transaxle in a clump of sage. I live in a sea of sage in New Mexico.

We need to haul our water from a community well a few miles away so I nothing else I'll use the truck for that as then I could just leave a 300 gallon tank on the truck.

The Camper Queen camper was bought at the same time in 1967 as the truck and is in fair shape. Thinking now about alternative trucks - a more modern 2500 for instance.

I hate to give up on the truck - it has the strongest frame I've ever seen. there's a plate between the front wheels that must be an inch thick. And the cab has a nice homely look, like a ten year old would draw a truck. I'll get a pic and send it to ya.

Thanks! Clint

[5Tractorguy]

Originally Posted by Blue Sage

Hi Jake, Thanks for the thorough analysis. Apparently even a modern V8 with electronic ignition and fuel injection isn't going to give me 15 plus milage without which I can't really use it being on a fixed income etc.

I changed out the transaxle to a more efficient ratio and dropped the old transaxle in a clump of sage. I live in a sea of sage in New Mexico.

We need to haul our water from a community well a few miles away so I nothing else I'll use the truck for that as then I could just leave a 300 gallon tank on the truck.

The Camper Queen camper was bought at the same time in 1967 as the truck and is in fair shape. Thinking now about alternative trucks - a more modern 2500 for instance.

I hate to give up on the truck - it has the strongest frame I've ever seen. there's a plate between the front wheels that must be an inch thick. And the cab has a nice homely look, like a ten year old would draw a truck. I'll get a pic and send it to ya.

Thanks! Clint

You betcha... Glad to hear it's going to stay together. That would be great! When you have a chance to take one, post a pic here or send me a message, would be interested to see it!

[Blue Sage]

Darn. I meant to take one today. I'll get one up. I don't know what I want to do with the truck - I want a truck is all - if someone wanted this one as an antique or something at this point I'd be interested. I have a thick pile of garage receipts from the military guy who originally owned it until about 2006. I've got the original receipt from '67 when camper and truck were bought together. In '98 there was a major rebuild - don't know if it got rebored or just had the rings replaced. He added AC, power steering, dual charging device. Has three gas tanks! One used to be for water but someone put gas in it.