Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Lifted07Duramax · 10-09-2012, 12:32 AM

I have a 350 that was out of a 79 Impala engine needs to be rebuilt.

I dont know of a lot of sites that sell rebuilds or sites that sell reman engines for good prices.

What I do know is my budget is $1,500 MAYBE $2,000 if it was a good build with descent heads on it.

I dont know the cam specs but its a crappy cam thats for sure so Id want a new one of those.

The intake is a edelbrock 2101 I think and I know the heads are restrictive heads. But if I can get away with reusing the heads for now and upgrading later when I have more money to put into it Id go that route.

So what do you all recommend? Buying parts and paying shop have it rebuilt with a better cam installed or buy a reman already put together and just need to slap accessories, heads, intake and carb on it?

Lastly what are 3 descent choices for a cam to go with for good low end power but also able to put out 350hp with the right heads to match the cam

**mr48chev** · 10-09-2012, 12:49 AM

We had a discussion this morning on Chevy crate motors. A new 260hp 350 will set you back right at 1400 for the long block. You might even get a better deal if you know someone in a Chevrolet parts department.

On the other hand http://www.northernautoparts.com/Man...ufacturerId=28 Has engine kits starting with a 79.99 rering kit (I have one in my 71 GMC with 70+K on it. to a 383 Stroker with crank for 677.99. You can add upgrades to either kit. You would then need to have your block and heads machined and all of the tinware cleaned if you didn't clean it yourself . For 199.99 they have a master rebuild kit. You still have to have a good block, heads and crank and have the machine work done. I won't even guess the cost of machine work anymore because it varies so much from one area to another and from one shop to another.

Lifted07Duramax · 10-09-2012, 12:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr48chev

We had a discussion this morning on Chevy crate motors. A new 260hp 350 will set you back right at 1400 for the long block. You might even get a better deal if you know someone in a Chevrolet parts department.

On the other hand http://www.northernautoparts.com/Man...ufacturerId=28 Has engine kits starting with a 79.99 rering kit (I have one in my 71 GMC with 70+K on it. to a 383 Stroker with crank for 677.99. You can add upgrades to either kit. You would then need to have your block and heads machined and all of the tinware cleaned if you didn't clean it yourself . For 199.99 they have a master rebuild kit. You still have to have a good block, heads and crank and have the machine work done. I won't even guess the cost of machine work anymore because it varies so much from one area to another and from one shop to another.

lol thanks for the reply so what are you saying the best route probably is? And $1,400 for a built block and heads? How much do just the blocks with cam go for?
And Ill reuse my heads and replace it to a Vortec heads and intake later

**buggy5872** · 10-09-2012, 07:59 AM

There is a bunch of running 350 engines on your local craigs list. There is even a vortec for 800 bucks. Take a look, you might get something good running that could get you going and take your time building the motor you really want to put in.

Lifted07Duramax · 10-09-2012, 12:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by buggy5872

There is a bunch of running 350 engines on your local craigs list. There is even a vortec for 800 bucks. Take a look, you might get something good running that could get you going and take your time building the motor you really want to put in.

Can I take a vortec motor that is computer ran and take all that off and throw my carb on it to get rolling

Jmageee902004 · 10-09-2012, 12:41 PM

Id go the craigslist route too, for 250$ i got a stock running 350 with supposedly 80,000 miles, runs good and i've not had any issues with it. And i dont know how many times ive been on craigslist wishing i had 1500-2000$ for a decently built motor.
And im pretty sure you could use the vortex may have to swap out the EFI intake with a carburetor intake though. Im pretty sure thats just what my cousin did with his 305 when he went from EFI to carb.

**arturo7** · 10-09-2012, 12:50 PM

As mentioned earlier, you can pick up a crate motor for about $1,500. This is the path I took. It just arrived yesterday...

_Ogre · 10-09-2012, 01:39 PM

we bought a rebuilt motor from a local rebuilder last year for $1600
the builder estimated 250 hp, mid-range for economy and power
we pulled the motor, a mid 70s, 140 hp, oil burner and brought it to him as a core
we were able to drop off the core and take home a re-built motor in the same trip
my son did call ahead to give the builder time to build one

we chose this route over a crate long block because the with a crate long block you pay a lot for shipping
and still have to re-build the heads
you still need to r&r the intake, water pump, pan and valve covers
but it came with heads, valves adjusted and a new oil pump

OrrieG · 10-09-2012, 03:50 PM

My last three engines have come from running trucks, most I paid was $400 for the whole truck (it was a K10). On all three someone else had spent the money for an aftermarket cam, intake and carb. I do a compression check and check the plugs. I remove the intake, exhaust manifolds, pan and timing cover to check for timing chain play and the bearing/cylinder condition. I replace the main seal, pan and timing cover gaskets, paint it then reinstall the intake, etc. While I have it a part I clean up the accessories, brackets, etc. and paint them. First one I drove about 7K per year for 15 years (towards the end it started to have ring issues), second has been in my Chevelle for 7 years driven about 5K per year, third one is in the current project. Here there is always a couple of engines usually 350s and 454s on CL usually in a running truck or getting ready to be pulled.

**Dan in Pasadena** · 10-09-2012, 04:19 PM

Orrie is RIGHT on the money in my opinion. I have a great running but over cammed 283 w/camel hump heads, headers, & new Edelbrock Performer intake in my '55. But I don't know the true condition of it cause it came in the truck. If it ever goes south ill definitely go Orrie's route and save the 283 to build at my budget's leisure.
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PurdueSD · 10-09-2012, 08:40 PM

Being a novice with engines a donor vehicle was the path i chose. That way i could look, listen, hear, drive etc. I chose an 88 suburban for $800 bucks with what seems to be a fairly fresh 350tbi and 700r4. I also hope to use the pedals/booster and master, gas tank, and whatever else i can scavenge.
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Lifted07Duramax · 10-09-2012, 08:44 PM

Can I pull power steering off another truck or car for my 55 gmc?
Save some money over these expensive kits

Also a vortec 350 will drop right in right? Without new holes or brackets needing to be made

Lifted07Duramax · 10-11-2012, 08:07 PM

Ok so it looks like we are going to rebuild his 79 caprice engine.
Please correct me if any of these plans may not be good.

The rebuild kit will have less dished pistons so instead of what 7.5-8:1 compression we will get 9:1 compression.
Then replace heads with casting number 10088113, I guess they were on the older Vettes?

Next question would be what is a good safe cam with good power from 1200-5000
Im pretty sure it has a crappy RV cam in it right now.
The intake is an edelbrock performer and the carb is a holley 600 double pumper

Lifted07Duramax · 10-11-2012, 08:17 PM

I also found a set of vortec heads and intake.
My other option is getting engine rebuilt and having the vortec heads and intake installed.

As far as anyone knows is it as easy as just installing the heads and intake or is something else needed?

Im torn between getting those older corvette heads or throwing the vortec heads and intake on.

Suggestions?

Im more of a LS guy and just now learning about all these parts for older motors

Indian113 · 10-11-2012, 10:08 PM

Lifted07Duramax,I have a 327-350 hp cam in my 350. It's a Speed Pro L79 cam it is in the range that you want. Nice little lope and it pulls to 4500 great and is nice on the highway cruising. I bought it from Northern Auto Parts for $85.00 4 years ago.

Lifted07Duramax · 10-11-2012, 10:36 PM

ahh Im really going nuts here.

I know the same I want to use is a comp cam 268xe so now I just need a set of heads and springs thatll work and not give me PTV issues but there are so many used heads I have no idea which ones to go with

Lifted07Duramax · 10-11-2012, 10:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Indian113

Lifted07Duramax,I have a 327-350 hp cam in my 350. It's a Speed Pro L79 cam it is in the range that you want. Nice little lope and it pulls to 4500 great and is nice on the highway cruising. I bought it from Northern Auto Parts for $85.00 4 years ago.

What cam is this? I did a search and found some links that gave me no answers on specs

**Dan in Pasadena** · 10-11-2012, 10:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lifted07Duramax

ahh Im really going nuts here.

I know the same I want to use is a comp cam 268xe...

Not to hijack(

) but I've done searches on this and other Chevy sites about better/optimum cams for SBC's and I've read the recommendation of the Comp Cam 268 series a number of times.

Here's my question; if I'm NOT looking for maximum HP & torque, just nice, useable improved-over-stock performance in the low and mid range for a daily driver that MUST provide enough vacuum to operate a brake booster, would the knowledgeable among you STILL recommend the 268, or is there a better option?

Would it be much different for me with an early SBC as opposed to a much newer SBC like Lifted07Duramax is asking about.

P.S. to Lifted07Duramax - You and I must think a lot alike because my OTHER truck is an '08 crew dually 4x4 LTZ and my company truck is an '11 GMC 3500 extended cab. I guess we both like GM trucks, huh?!!!

Lifted07Duramax · 10-11-2012, 11:12 PM

Good question, because this being in a 55 with a brake booster won't I need more vaccum?

And from everything Ive read the comp cam 268 is the way to go for a nice sound and very useable power.
After looking the past hour it sure looks like I should just go ahead and get vortec heads and intake. Just need to find out if its a direct bolt on or if Ill need to buy other things or move something for whatever reason.

Heres a pic of my duramax it now has 38s it has 36s in this pic

Lifted07Duramax · 10-11-2012, 11:24 PM

I found a very good thread about the 268
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-t...questions.html

Looks like a 262 would be the better choice to go with and then get a rear end that has 3.55 or lower. I need a new wider rear end anyways so Ill be looking for a 3.55-4.10

Lifted07Duramax · 10-11-2012, 11:45 PM

Ok here we go, can anyone tell me why I shouldnt try to copy this exact build?
http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/e...d/viewall.html

10-09-2012, 12:32 AM	#1
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck I have a 350 that was out of a 79 Impala engine needs to be rebuilt. I dont know of a lot of sites that sell rebuilds or sites that sell reman engines for good prices. What I do know is my budget is $1,500 MAYBE $2,000 if it was a good build with descent heads on it. I dont know the cam specs but its a crappy cam thats for sure so Id want a new one of those. The intake is a edelbrock 2101 I think and I know the heads are restrictive heads. But if I can get away with reusing the heads for now and upgrading later when I have more money to put into it Id go that route. So what do you all recommend? Buying parts and paying shop have it rebuilt with a better cam installed or buy a reman already put together and just need to slap accessories, heads, intake and carb on it? Lastly what are 3 descent choices for a cam to go with for good low end power but also able to put out 350hp with the right heads to match the cam

10-09-2012, 12:49 AM	#2
mr48chev Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Toppenish, WA Posts: 15,711	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck We had a discussion this morning on Chevy crate motors. A new 260hp 350 will set you back right at 1400 for the long block. You might even get a better deal if you know someone in a Chevrolet parts department. On the other hand http://www.northernautoparts.com/Man...ufacturerId=28 Has engine kits starting with a 79.99 rering kit (I have one in my 71 GMC with 70+K on it. to a 383 Stroker with crank for 677.99. You can add upgrades to either kit. You would then need to have your block and heads machined and all of the tinware cleaned if you didn't clean it yourself . For 199.99 they have a master rebuild kit. You still have to have a good block, heads and crank and have the machine work done. I won't even guess the cost of machine work anymore because it varies so much from one area to another and from one shop to another.

10-09-2012, 07:59 AM	#4
buggy5872 Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: North Beaver TWP PA Posts: 833	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck There is a bunch of running 350 engines on your local craigs list. There is even a vortec for 800 bucks. Take a look, you might get something good running that could get you going and take your time building the motor you really want to put in. __________________ ___________________________ 1959 Apache Short Fleetside, 1959 Apache NAPCO Long Stepside, 1957 3100 with 59 fleetside bed 1957 5700 LCF Crew Cab "Big Bertha",1959 GMC F370 1958 GMC 600, 1946 Chevy, 1959 Viking 60 LCF 1974 Elcamino SS, 1979 6500 GMC Tilt Bed Wrecker Big Bertha Build

10-09-2012, 12:41 PM	#6
Jmageee902004 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Burnsville Posts: 70	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Id go the craigslist route too, for 250$ i got a stock running 350 with supposedly 80,000 miles, runs good and i've not had any issues with it. And i dont know how many times ive been on craigslist wishing i had 1500-2000$ for a decently built motor. And im pretty sure you could use the vortex may have to swap out the EFI intake with a carburetor intake though. Im pretty sure thats just what my cousin did with his 305 when he went from EFI to carb.

10-09-2012, 12:50 PM	#7
arturo7 Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: huntington beach Posts: 845	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck As mentioned earlier, you can pick up a crate motor for about $1,500. This is the path I took. It just arrived yesterday... __________________ ever forward build thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=542073

10-09-2012, 01:39 PM	#8
_Ogre Registered User Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Motown Posts: 7,680	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck we bought a rebuilt motor from a local rebuilder last year for $1600 the builder estimated 250 hp, mid-range for economy and power we pulled the motor, a mid 70s, 140 hp, oil burner and brought it to him as a core we were able to drop off the core and take home a re-built motor in the same trip my son did call ahead to give the builder time to build one we chose this route over a crate long block because the with a crate long block you pay a lot for shipping and still have to re-build the heads you still need to r&r the intake, water pump, pan and valve covers but it came with heads, valves adjusted and a new oil pump __________________ cool, an ogre smiley Ogre's 58 Truk build how to put your truck year and build thread into your signature shop air compressor timer

10-09-2012, 03:50 PM	#9
OrrieG Registered User Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Idaho Posts: 8,800	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck My last three engines have come from running trucks, most I paid was $400 for the whole truck (it was a K10). On all three someone else had spent the money for an aftermarket cam, intake and carb. I do a compression check and check the plugs. I remove the intake, exhaust manifolds, pan and timing cover to check for timing chain play and the bearing/cylinder condition. I replace the main seal, pan and timing cover gaskets, paint it then reinstall the intake, etc. While I have it a part I clean up the accessories, brackets, etc. and paint them. First one I drove about 7K per year for 15 years (towards the end it started to have ring issues), second has been in my Chevelle for 7 years driven about 5K per year, third one is in the current project. Here there is always a couple of engines usually 350s and 454s on CL usually in a running truck or getting ready to be pulled. __________________ 1959 Chevy Short Fleetside w/ 74 4WD drive train (current project) OrrieG Build Thread 1964 Chevelle Malibu w/ 355-350TH (daily driver) Helpful AD and TF Manual Site Old Car Manual Project

10-09-2012, 04:19 PM	#10
Dan in Pasadena Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Glendora, CA Posts: 6,344	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Orrie is RIGHT on the money in my opinion. I have a great running but over cammed 283 w/camel hump heads, headers, & new Edelbrock Performer intake in my '55. But I don't know the true condition of it cause it came in the truck. If it ever goes south ill definitely go Orrie's route and save the 283 to build at my budget's leisure. Posted via Mobile Device

10-09-2012, 08:40 PM	#11
PurdueSD Registered User Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: the middle Posts: 296	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Being a novice with engines a donor vehicle was the path i chose. That way i could look, listen, hear, drive etc. I chose an 88 suburban for $800 bucks with what seems to be a fairly fresh 350tbi and 700r4. I also hope to use the pedals/booster and master, gas tank, and whatever else i can scavenge. Posted via Mobile Device

10-09-2012, 08:44 PM	#12
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Can I pull power steering off another truck or car for my 55 gmc? Save some money over these expensive kits Also a vortec 350 will drop right in right? Without new holes or brackets needing to be made

10-11-2012, 08:07 PM	#13
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Ok so it looks like we are going to rebuild his 79 caprice engine. Please correct me if any of these plans may not be good. The rebuild kit will have less dished pistons so instead of what 7.5-8:1 compression we will get 9:1 compression. Then replace heads with casting number 10088113, I guess they were on the older Vettes? Next question would be what is a good safe cam with good power from 1200-5000 Im pretty sure it has a crappy RV cam in it right now. The intake is an edelbrock performer and the carb is a holley 600 double pumper

10-11-2012, 08:17 PM	#14
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck I also found a set of vortec heads and intake. My other option is getting engine rebuilt and having the vortec heads and intake installed. As far as anyone knows is it as easy as just installing the heads and intake or is something else needed? Im torn between getting those older corvette heads or throwing the vortec heads and intake on. Suggestions? Im more of a LS guy and just now learning about all these parts for older motors

10-11-2012, 10:08 PM	#15
Indian113 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Monroe,Iowa Posts: 4,370	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Lifted07Duramax,I have a 327-350 hp cam in my 350. It's a Speed Pro L79 cam it is in the range that you want. Nice little lope and it pulls to 4500 great and is nice on the highway cruising. I bought it from Northern Auto Parts for $85.00 4 years ago.

10-11-2012, 10:36 PM	#16
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck ahh Im really going nuts here. I know the same I want to use is a comp cam 268xe so now I just need a set of heads and springs thatll work and not give me PTV issues but there are so many used heads I have no idea which ones to go with

10-11-2012, 11:12 PM	#19
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Good question, because this being in a 55 with a brake booster won't I need more vaccum? And from everything Ive read the comp cam 268 is the way to go for a nice sound and very useable power. After looking the past hour it sure looks like I should just go ahead and get vortec heads and intake. Just need to find out if its a direct bolt on or if Ill need to buy other things or move something for whatever reason. Heres a pic of my duramax it now has 38s it has 36s in this pic



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10-11-2012, 11:24 PM	#20
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck I found a very good thread about the 268 http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-t...questions.html Looks like a 262 would be the better choice to go with and then get a rear end that has 3.55 or lower. I need a new wider rear end anyways so Ill be looking for a 3.55-4.10

10-11-2012, 11:45 PM	#21
Lifted07Duramax Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: springfield, mo Posts: 32	Re: Cheapest route on getting engine in my 55 GMC Truck Ok here we go, can anyone tell me why I shouldnt try to copy this exact build? http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/e...d/viewall.html

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