picking the right 350 [Archive] - Chevelle Tech

: picking the right 350


jcarey8
Dec 19th, 05, 12:53 PM
I want to drop a 350 into my 72 chevelle. What years and models of the 350 would be best and most adaptable to the chevelle? Any years to stay away from? What do you guys think? Its got a 307 in it now. All numbers matching
thanks as always,
john

cobra2411
Dec 19th, 05, 1:04 PM
Basically anything from 69 - 86. The later one piece rear seal ones will work too, but you need the correct flywheel. Many of those have roller cams, but no mechanical fuel pump...

They'll all fit, along with 327's 283's 400's.... 396's 402's... 348's, 409's... Chevy pretty much standardized the mounting of it's engines and the bellhouse bolt pattern.

Check out www.mortec.com for casting numbers. Trucks usually have 4 bolt mains, but you probably don't need them.

up to 73 or 74 the heads are better, but the later ones are more compatible to unleaded gas...

What are you looking for? Just a little more power? What do you want to spend?

Oh, by the way just use the 307 engine mounts even though you put in a 350. The frame stands are different and the 350 mounts won't work. No big deal, but it causes people headaches from time to time.

David

P.S. I checked out the pics of your car... Awsome! That thing is really nice!! :thumbsup:

jcarey8
Dec 19th, 05, 1:12 PM
im looking to spend around 1,000- 1,500. I want something with around 300 hp but not bad at the gas pump. But also something i can drive regulary.

Motorhead62
Dec 19th, 05, 1:20 PM
Hey John,

Check this out! I offer TC discounts too!

http://www.c-dperformance.com/CDPSuperStreets_FM.html

:D

tpshea
Dec 19th, 05, 2:27 PM
The later one piece rear seal ones will work too, but you need the correct flywheel. Many of those have roller cams, but no mechanical fuel pump...

David

David,

I have not seen any GM 350 blocks that were missing the fuel pump mount. Are you sure you're not referring to the late model big-blocks? Just curious.

cobra2411
Dec 19th, 05, 3:21 PM
Tim, the one's that I've seen had the mount, but wasn't open. Not sure if you can open it up or not. I've only seen a couple, so maybe some are open, some arn't. They were out of late 80's early 90's trucks, pre-vortec.

John, a couple ways you can go... 1 is a GM crate motor. It's the basic one and usually sell for around $1500. It's rated at 230 hp, but with headers, duals and good intake it will be about 270hp. It even has a warranty... Later you can upgrade. http://www.sdpc2000.com/catalog/123/products/110/1969-85-Most-Cars-and-Light-Duty-Pick-ups.htm

Another way is to buy a parts car or truck with a running motor. Usually can find something for $500 - $800 with a rusted out body. You can then hear the engine run, make sure the oil pressure is good... etc.

You can call local rebuilders and maybe they have a stock type rebuilt engine that you can get for less then $1500...

You can also drop a Summit brand performer cam in the 307 along with headers, performer intake and 4 bbl carb and get 260 - 270hp with good economy and later the headers and intake will bolt up to a 350... Then you can save money and get one of Chris's engines... :)

Problem with the 307 is the lack of nickle in the block. They wear out faster...

Keep an eye on the paper, lists like www.craigslist.com, the classifieds here... You'll find one. I like running cars the best for used engines. My favorite ad was "78 454, includes Suburban..." :)

Just about any 350 will work though...

David