[Mike C]

I agree that the LS thing is overdone and much more expensice than you'd think starting off with an inexpensive motor.

Some good suggestions above about checking out your existing motor. We pulled the 350 from my kids Jimmy project and tore it down to the shortblock. Added a Z/28 oil pump, 204/214 @ .050 "RV" cam with double roller chain, an Edelbrock Performer intake under a JET Stage II Q-jet, HEI distributor, and 2 1/2" Corvette Rams Horns. Significant increase in performance. Added a set of "Chevrolet" raised script valve covers and shot the whole thing orange including the intake with Summit Urethane Hugger Orange.

It looks mostly stock, sounds mostly stock and runs great. If I had a little more money to spend on a similar project would have gone to a 383 and the Vortec dual bolt patter heads to use the older style valve covers and intake manifold along with a 214 to 218 @ .050 cam. The FI is really cool but for me I would want trans control if I converted and that doubles the price. The Q-jet works great when they are in good shape.