Engine Upgrade

I just bought an 86 Chevy Silverado 2WD. I don't know why but I've always loved this Chevy model. And after trading in my 2004 2500 4x4 for a mini van my wife let me buy an old beater truck. Well I plan to soup this puppy up. But first I want to get a new engine and trans before doing any body work. I've always loved automobiles and now have the time and money (not a lot) to really dive in. I'm a newbie but a fast learner and am not really affraid of taking on a big challange. So my question here is My current engine is a standard 305 5.0L 4BBR, and it leaks oil from pretty much everywhere. I want to know what would be a nice upgrade and how hard would it be? I would like to use my current intake manafold, carb, etc (because it has been newly upgraded), how big can I go with out needing to buy all new parts? I was thinking of upgrading to a 350. Any suggestions?

The beauty of the Chevy small block is its interchangibility.
All of your exterior parts will fit another SBC from '55 to '86. The only qualification might be exhaust manifolds, because some of the 305 manifolds have a slightly different bolt pattern on one end.

mi2600 is right. But the coolest part is, your motor mounts and transmission will bolt up to the 350 as well. If your intake and carb are large enough to accept the 350, there shouldnt be any issues. And, ultimatly, the 350 is the greatest bang for the buck;)

With the weight of a truck, you might consider moving up to a 400 small block to start with.

I'd find a 350 in a wreckers that ran good and go from there. Get a 4bbl engine, your 305 carb will need jetting to work on a 350 and its a hassle if you aren't experienced.

Quote:

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Originally posted by techinspector1
With the weight of a truck, you might consider moving up to a 400 small block to start with.

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I agree Tech! The first time he punches that 400, He will too. The 350 would certainly make a nice improvment,but the 400 is just so strong down low. Gas mileage may be a little rougher with the 400.

Best advice I could give is to go down and buy yourself a new GM 350 crate motor. You just can't beat "new" for a driver.

I've got a bone stock 350, a mild 383 and a milder 406. The 406 just has that "Let me at 'em" attitude.

Hey kcmo, you know where Independence is?

This manual might give you some ideas.

http://www.crateenginedepot.com/stor...74-P943C6.aspx