New (to me) engine for my truck

[Longhorn 70]

I had an Olds Big Block in my truck that had been there for 30 years. I rebuilt it 25 or so ago and it had been running well. Had being the key word. I pulled it down and it was going to take a lot to get it going.

I decided to install a used small block chevy in the mean time in case the rebuild took a while. I found a 4 bolt main 350 at a fair price on Craigslist that looked to be in good shape and sounded good too. I thought it was just a run of the mill 2 bollt main. Nice surprise finding 4. It did have some oil leaks and needed to have them taken care of before the install. It also had an issue with an oil pressure dip on decelleration.

I decided to install new gaskets, plugs and seals prior to the install. When I opened the pan, I found the pickup tube in the botttom of the pan NOT on the pump. When I pulled the rear main to install the seal, the bearing still looked good. WHEW. I am glad I pulled it down to take a look.

I installed the seal the timing chain front seal and washed it up. Tomorrow it goes in. I wish I had a dial indicator to look at the cam lift. I wonder if I can rig my dial indicator to do this.... wish me luck.

4 bolt main with 882 casting heads and it looks in good shape at a fair price, I'm good. I'll post pics after the install.


Vince

[Longhorn 70]

Well at least got it in, bolted to mounts and bolted to the transmission. Now I'll find out if I can live with the small block or if I'll miss the OLDS. The SBC just looks so tiny in there. I know it's not a fair comparison due to different camrea angles...




Next: get the starter, exhaust, alternator, and ancillaries bolted up and test drive.

[truckster]

Don't worry, you'll only feel the difference when you accelerate.

[Longhorn 70]

Originally Posted by truckster

Don't worry, you'll only feel the difference when you accelerate.

HA! As long as I feel a positive difference at the pump, I'll take the trade-off.