383 vs 350

[Kudzupatch]

Need to replace the engine in my Suburban. I tow fairly regular. Somewhere around 4,000 lbs. Mostly just show tows, nothing long.

Anything will be a big improvement over the under powered engine then put in mine. But I am trying to decide if the extra expense of a crate 383 built as a replacement/towing engine is worth the extra cost over a similar built 350? I know I will gain some torque and HP but how much? Is it really noticeable difference?

[Warrens69GMC]

It will be noticeable, and do your self a favor and get your engine with a roller camshaft.

[Ziegelsteinfaust]

Like said above it will be noticeable, but I would add especially at part throttle conditions. With out know what your looking for too in the engine ues get the roller cam, and along with it is very nice upgrade to get is Vortec heads.

GMPP had a HT383 that from my read of your post could be a ideal swap candidate.

[Kudzupatch]

I am now seeing a couple of companies that now offer BASICALLY a Vortec 383. Vortec heads, roller cam, one piece seal, etc.

I was looking at the L31 but since GM upped the price so much the 383 option while still higher but a lot closer in price. Plus some are offering what they call truck motors with smaller cams and better suited for doing truck stuff.

[Ziegelsteinfaust]

Even the car motors are great for trucks compared to a basic 350 smogger. The smaller cam is typically friendlier with a trucks typically lower stall speed on the converter.

I have used up to 2000rpm stalls in trucks, and when hauling had no side issues. You just have to run a good cooler, and except aittle more revs to get rolling under a heavier load

[Kudzupatch]

Originally Posted by Ziegelsteinfaust

Even the car motors are great for trucks compared to a basic 350 smogger.

The 93 had something like 210 hp and 300 ft lbs of torque. Not to impressive and doesn't take a lot be better than that.

[Warrens69GMC]

This might help-

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tpi/...ml#post6427892

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tech...en1-383-a.html

[Ziegelsteinfaust]

Originally Posted by Kudzupatch

The 93 had something like 210 hp and 300 ft lbs of torque. Not to impressive and doesn't take a lot be better than that.

It was a reference to the above post. Where a basic vortec engine with a "car" cam is still better then just about any smogger 350 I am aware of.

[Tom]

The difference in price in having an engine rebuilt from a 350 to a 383 is literally just the crank, so like $300. That's a no brainer.

Crate engines on the other hand, are over expensive and get worse with upgrades like a 383.

[burnin oil]

Last time I bought a SCAT rotating assembly there wasn't a price difference. Pistons were the ringer in the kits cost depending on what you bought.

[crazy longhorn]

If you are not into building, I would look at the GM 383 crate. The cost may be more than some of the other builds, but the warranty is what you need to look at Longhorn

[blazer2007]

does Gm give you a warranty if you install it or does it have to be done by a mechanic ?

[dagnabbitt]

I recommend Blueprint over GM Performance. I don't believe you mentioned what trans and rear gears you are running, that info is relevant if you are towing.

[Kudzupatch]

Originally Posted by blazer2007

does Gm give you a warranty if you install it or does it have to be done by a mechanic ?

Keep meaning to read that warranty but I think you are right.

I knew the parts manager at my local dealer and he would accept the engine back under warranty and replace it, but I do think that was just him and probably people he knew that knew what they were doing.