'66 C10 Motor 283/350/455 - transmission options

[blackcloud45]

Hey all, would like some input on engine transmission choice for my project...

I have a '66 SWB C10, came stock w/ 283 and 3 speed standard. All original, bought new by my great grandfather in '66, given to my grandfather in '76, then given to me. Truck has been sitting since '86. I have taken it down to the frame for a complete resto. Not wanting to do a 100% back-to-factory stock restoration but really want a good, solid truck that I can enjoy for many years.

As part of my resto I've decided to perform the power steering conversion as well as front disc brake conversion. My grandfather and I talked prior to his passing and he said he always wanted to put an automatic tranny in it. I agree w/ that idea.

Let me kind of describe what I'm looking for. I'm not particularly worried about gas mileage. I drive a Honda for that. I'd like a good, dependable motor w/ enough power for a good seat of pants feel when you get on it. I grew up working on cars in my grandfather's shop but have no formal education as a mechanic. In other words, I feel pretty handy and am not afraid to tackle most projects. Having said that, (and the more I have to work on newer cars) I don't have enough experience diagnosing newer vehicles. I attribute this to the excess of sensors, computers, wiring, etc prevalent on newer cars. With the exception of upgrading points to a more modern ignition, I really am not interested in adding any of that crap to this truck. While stripping the frame I marveled at the 4 wire harness that I found. Did I say 4 WIRES? Awesome. In other words, no injection, sensors (except for basic temp, oil, and battery), no computer, etc.

My engine options as I see it are as follows:

Rebuild 283 - Enough power? Enough potential for power without pushing engine too hard? Doesn't seem to be a wide selection of aftermarket stuff made specifically for 283. I know some 350 parts will work, but are they optimal for the smaller engine?

Buy crate motor - Not interested in rebuilt crate motor. If I'm going new, I want all new. Probably the same cost as rebuild (or close enough to make difference negligible). Concerned w/ Mexico block. Most likely warranty will void due to my installing (as opposed to certified shop) and being invalid vehicle for engine? New and lots of happy success stories w/ the 260 hp and 290 hp GM models. Camshaft worth the price difference? I dunno. A couple of horror stories too.

Rebuild on hand '68 Olds 455 engine - I've owned this engine a long time and know the history. Big motor w/ decent HP right of the gate in stock form. I already have Edelbrock Performer manifold and Carb. Heads and a mild cam and I'm there? In other words, not working as hard to meet same goal. I've owned several big block cars and there is just something special about cubic inches. Swap issues? Mounts might work or I've read about the 350 diesel mounts so I don't think that's an issue. I think Cutlass headers will work. This engine also has matching TH400 tranny bolted to it (also a candidate for rebuild). Concerned w/ weight difference w/ regards to springs and / or potential for frame damage? This motor is HEAVY. Distributor clearance? Fan shroud issues? Power steering bracket and pump already present.

Did I mention I'll be running AC as this truck was ordered w/ AC from factory?

Transmission - I'm pretty open. No experience w/ OD trannys. Ran a bunch of TH400's though. Rear end gears 3:73 FYI. Do I even need OD?

Sorry for the long post guys and thanks in advance for your time / responses.

[blackcloud45]

Post must be too long

[HugoV]

I'm in a similar situation... hopefully someone can chime in! Great questions though.

[jocko]

283 + 700R4. Yes, with 3.73, you need (or at least should want) an o/d IF you plan on driving on the highway remotely regularly. 700R4 will help with highway manners and provide more torque multiplication in 1st than a TH400 or TH350 (since you mentioned you wanted "kick"). Will make your 283 "seem" more powerful.

That's my vote.

However, an additional option, if the above combo doesn't seem it will provide the tire shredding kick you seek - is to buy a GM crate motor. If 283 not good enough - I'd recommend ZZ383 or something like that. Then rebuild the ol 283 to stock specs and keep it on an engine cradle to drool over in the garage - but DON'T get rid of it. It's too cool. And btw, there are tons of aftermarket parts for the 283 imo.

Having said all that - the cool factor of lifting the hood and seeing a clean, working, modestly powerful 283 compared to popping the hood and showing off your crate, well... there is no comparison. Thus my first vote.

As for the 455. Ah, no.

[blackcloud45]

Thank you sir. I have this sickness where I can't throw anything away (just ask my wife) so the 283 won't be going anywhere

Honestly, the 283 was my first thought for just the reason you mention. EVERYONE has a a 350. That, and this video:

283ci Chevrolet small block rebuild - YouTube

Summit and Jeg's the best place for the parts? When I look, they seem to lump everything under the 350-400 SBC category?

[65Gregg]

Engine choice is dependent on your intended usage in my opinion. One of the best values is the GM line of crate motors, you can get them complete from carb to pan which means you don't have to chase a lot of parts. The Olds would be cool, do you have the willingness to fab parts that aren't available on the aftermarket? I have had 2 350's in my truck since I've owned it, the first one I built myself and a ZZ4. Both were fine, just wanted to change things up. Now I'm working on a possible trade for a LS motor, again just for a change. With 3.73 gears my trans choice would a 700R4 trans. That is what I have and it is a good all around set up. Welcome to the site, be sure to check out the FAQ section, all the answers to your questions for disk conversion, power steering etc is available.
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[blackcloud45]

Cool, I've been reading the old posts like crazy gleaning tidbits here and there for the PS and brakes. I found the Bowtie ODs site for the 700 on here. Looks cool.

I actually put that 455 in my '69 LeMans. Probably not as in depth (Pontiac to Olds), but I'm no stranger to a torch, welding machine, and right angle grinder. I know I could make it work, just wanted to see if it was worth the effort.

Lots of good stuff on here for sure!

[65Gregg]

What part of Houston are you in? The Conroe swap meet is coming up soon lots of deals to be found, you should browse the aisles.
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[blackcloud45]

South Houston, Beltway and 45. When's the swap meet? May try to make it!
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[65Gregg]

Nov 2,3 & 4.
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[blackcloud45]

Where in Conroe? Thanks
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[65Gregg]

Take 45 N to FM 3083, this will be on the north side of Conroe, turn right. Go approx 3 miles, the fairground is on the left. There is a street that cuts off to the left I think it is marked. Check google map to be sure.
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[blackcloud45]

Thanks!