Possible Engine Swap

[76LongBox]

Hey guys...

I've been away from the forums for a WHILE now, but finally getting interested in my old '76 GMC again.

It still has the original drive train in it, but it's "tired" to say the least.  I mean, it still runs, but it's getting harder and harder to crank, is not running right a lot of the time, and has several leaks.  I know it can be "fixed" if I had the time and energy, but I'm thinking that maybe it's time to just put a new (or rebuilt) drivetrain in it and rock on.

Anyway, as I've been searching for various crate engines, and other options, I came across gearheadengines.com and just wondered if anyone knows anything about them.  I talked to a guy there today, and they have a remanufactured 350 "drop-in" engine for $2699 shipped to my door with no core charge.  It includes "4bolt Main, Aluminum Intake, 600cfm Holley Carb, Distributor, Fuel Pump, Water Pump, Balancer, Flex Plate, Wires, Spark Plugs And Tinware."  They also offer a TH350 transmission with torque converter for $800 with a $275 core (shipping included both ways).

Their drop-in engines have a 2 year, unlimited mileage warranty, and I think the guy told me 3 year, unlimited mileage on the tranny.

Does anyone have any idea about these guys?  Any input will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Mike W.

[mdethlefs]

i just bought a new L31 350 from Jegs delivered to the door for 1919.00 for my 77. Its a "Vortec" style which means new style intake needed and a electric fuel pump will be needed. I like the fact it has a roller cam, one piece rear seal, vortec heads ect.

[76LongBox]

I've also been looking at the GM crate engines at JEGS since they have the free shipping on them right now.  I've actually just been looking at the basic replacement model for $1499.99.  I'm really just looking to get "Ol' Jim" (as my uncle who bought the truck new used to call it) back to being a very reliable ride that I can drive around town to save some mileage on my 2010 Silverado Crew Cab.

[Irish_Alley]

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php/topic,26217.msg218169.html#msg218169

[76LongBox]

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php/topic,26217.msg218169.html#msg218169

Thanks for that link....looks like I need to get in touch with 'rich weyand'....his setup sounds PERFECT for me.

[rich weyand]

I really like the 12-300-4 cam, though installing it in a new GM 10067353 crate engine will void the warranty.  The nice thing about putting it in a new engine is that you don't need to change lifters or springs.  One change I am going to make: I am coming up on an exhaust re-do, and I will go to an X-pipe exhaust (from true duals) when I have it replaced.  More torque.

[76LongBox]

I like the looks of that setup you mentioned.  I actually just sent you a PM with a question or two.  I wish I was more knowledgeable about this stuff, but I guess the only way I can get there is to ask questions and try to learn.

Fortunately I do have some resources locally to help me in the endeavor and they ARE knowledgeable about it....

As for the voiding of the warranty, I'm not sure that's too big of a deal anyway.  I have no warranty on the truck now, so what's the difference?