crew cab engine (454 problems)

[playinsafe44]

I just picked up a '74 c-20 CC SRW for a very good price, but the engine has some issues.... It has a 454/TH400 setup, unilite distributor, edelbrock carb and intake, headers with new exhaust all the way back, electric fuel pump, eletric fan, and dual batteries, power steering, "better alternator" (seller said it was upgraded), and power brakes.

The problem is that it has a knock. Its easy to hear at idle, but due to the exhaust, it isn't so noticable when revved (you can still hear it if you listen for it).

Now my question is, how should I handle this? I have a good 350 with some bolt on goodies but I don't want this to be too underpowered. I have never worked on a big block, but I sounds like it has a rod knock. I don't think I want to do a full blown rebuild on it (again, not sure what type of engine I want), but I want to get this thing fixed as cost effectively/and as quickly as I can to be able to use it. Has anyone tried just swapping out bad rod bearings?

[playinsafe44]

I just did some more research, and it looks like the 350 should swap in real easily. Will this still be able to tow a car trailer on the freeway (towing a '50 Chevy 1/2 ton, or '66 Mustang). I would still like to put the 454 back in it one day, but I want to be able to put this truck to use.

Anyone want to chime in on how an old 3/4 crew cab feels like with a 350/th400? This wouldn't be a permement fix, but it would give me time to get the 454 rebuilt, or find a good donor.

[wyattglock]

I dont know about an old Chevy with a 350, but a friend of mine had a 1997 crew cab with a 350. Granted it was a Vortec, and it had a 4l80e, but it was still a dog on acceleration. It did tow his 5500 pound camper just fine, just didn't like to accelerate.