Is it worth putting a 383 in front of my SM465 4x4?

[hitower]

Looking for opinions for my daily driver K20 350/sm465 with a np205 and 3.73 gears and 32” tires.
I currently have a tired and leaky 350 that I drive 30 miles to work daily for the Salt free months here in Wisconsin. I’d like to replace the engine soon and I am considering a 383, either GM crate or have one built locally. I rarely tow anything heavier than my aluminum fishing boat or lawn tractor.
I’d like to have that feeling of being pushed back in the seat when I drop the hammer occasionally. I just wonder if the 383 would do that with the gear spacing of the 465??
The small extra cost of the 383 over a 350 doesn’t bother me as I’m 43 and never plan on selling my truck.
Thanks for any input!

[El Dorado Jim]

the 383 would be an awesome engine if you want that extra power, my son has one in his 70 GMC K2500, I just put a 350 crate engine in my 72 K20 and am very happy with it, runs great and has plenty of power for me, but go with the 383 if you want more HP...also if you get a crate engine you get the awesome warranty vs. getting it built locally

[57taskforce]

I’d say go for it. I’m working on a 500 horse 6.0 in front of the 465 in my K20. The gear spacing and ratios aren’t ideal for going fast but they are tough as nails and reliable.

[1972RedNeck]

I had a built 383 that I swapped into a '72 K2500. It was good, but my K20 is getting a big block. The big block will cost about the same as the 383 and have similar horsepower, but with an extra 100 ft lbs of torque and a wider range of power.

[1972RedNeck]

If the extra cost is workable, an NV4500 would have a little better gear spacing along with overdrive.

[hitower]

1972;
The NV 4500 has crossed my mind, so has a 700r4.
How much would you guess a nv4500 conversion would cost? I assume I’d need an adapter plate to keep my 205?

[hitower]

Elderado,
If I install the gm crate motor myself do I still get the gm crate warranty ?

[Stocker]

Years ago I had my 350 rebuilt. I have often wished I had spent more to get a 383. Go for it.

[72MARIO]

For a daily you really should consider a LS engine. I ran a 383 in my work truck for a few years. I Ls swapped it this spring with a 6.0 4l80 and it's just better all around.

[skytop]

I have a 383 and it powers my truck clear into the next time zone. Awesome engine.

[kwmech]

Try this even better

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=749565

[bhayes1]

3.73's in a K20... that must be nice! Is that factory (thought only 1/2 tons had those gears)? How do you like it?

[BILT4ME]

Yes, you do. It is a 12 month warranty.

We bought the 190 HP version early this year and just got it running in August.

Bought it from a dealership in VA.
Radley Chevrolet/Cadillac
W 540-376-3705 / 540-898-0055

They beat all my local dealerships in KC area. Watch eBay for them and their deals.

[jocko]

Originally Posted by bhayes1

3.73's in a K20... that must be nice! Is that factory (thought only 1/2 tons had those gears)? How do you like it?

not factory for a K20