NEW GM engines?

[Dr_Snooz]

After my latest engine rebuild broke my heart (http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=30716.0), I've realized that I've never had a rebuilt engine that didn't come back from the machine shop with residual issues. Leaky head gaskets, no oil pressure on start up, no power for some inexplicable reason, etc.

I'm thinking that buying new engines would be a better investment. GM offers new 7.4 engines like this one: http://www.summitracing.com/parts/nal-19207554/all. They also offer a rebuilt with GM parts for cheaper: http://www.gmpowertrainwarehouse.com/12339193.asp. The NEW engine is built using the Gen VI block, whereas the rebuilt uses the Mark IV block.

Does anyone have any experience with these engines? Any thoughts on how they might work out?

[roundhouse]

Check with a couple of GM dealers
They sell em there too

I'd get a crate engine or a used LS
Not worth the time and money to get one rebuilt nowadays


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[LTZ C20]

If your looking at new engines and both of your links I noticed are big blocks, why not get a used LS 8100 big block? It's an LS based engine, 8.1L, 496 cubic inch, fuel injected big block. They are great engines, tons of torque.

[Dr_Snooz]

Did I mention I'm under the bootheel of the California smog nazis?

The dealer wants $4500 for a new engine and can't seem to find the part number for the rebuilt (?).

[LTZ C20]

Oh that's too bad.

[roundhouse]

That sucks
I'd buy a junker that's old enough to be exempt and swap some stuff over


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[Dr_Snooz]

LOL. I think everyone in the state has had that idea. There has been a spike in blue book values for all '75 and earlier models. People who have them don't sell them either. They need to bring back the 25 year exemption. I mean, fracking is entirely unregulated in the state. They are completely free to poison all the wells in the state. The Chinese can ship over stuff so toxic it will knock a grown man down at 10 paces. The Japanese can ship in radioactive cars, but CARB subjects every aftermarket part supplier to super expensive smog regulations in the name of environmentalism and public safety? It's padded cell lunacy. This is how corrupt empires destroy themselves.

I guess no one has any experience with the GM engines? I might look closer at a crate engine. If I can get a long block that hasn't been too heavily modified, I might go that route. I'm assuming those are all rebuilds of existing blocks and heads though. I'd like to find a new engine if possible.

[Jason S]

I guess no one has any experience with the GM engines? I might look closer at a crate engine. If I can get a long block that hasn't been too heavily modified, I might go that route. I'm assuming those are all rebuilds of existing blocks and heads though. I'd like to find a new engine if possible.

Not big block, but I have a GM Performance Parts 350HO in my '73 K2500 that went in 16 or 17 years ago. 

With over 120,000 miles now; apart from replacing the crank seal after it wore a grove in the balancer, I've had no mechanical issues at all. I'd imagine the GMPP (Chevrolet Performance big blocks would be a similar build.

[LTZ C20]

Dr_Snooz, I'de like to make a suggestion. Go on the internet and check out ATK Performance Engines. They are very good and have a HUGE variety of engines. Stock replacements as well as mild, well built and full performance crate engines. They can also build an engine to your liking with specificly requested parts. They come with different kinds of warranties also. I got a short block from them. It was a 350, bored 40 over, with flat top pistons, OE roller cam, 4 bolt main. It's been great. I would call them and just talk to them and see what they can do for you. Might be cheaper too if you are close to them and can go pick it up when it's ready. I only paid 1400 for my short block, assembled bottom end with no heads or top end.

[Dr_Snooz]

Thanks guys. I'll check out ATK.

At this point, I'm a little squeamish about rebuilt engines. I've had issues with every one I've ever had, including the ones I've built myself. It's not that the rebuilders are careless or inept. There are just issues that can't be anticipated. A new engine seems like a better investment for a truck you intend to keep long term. However, all the new GM engines are based on the new block and I'm sure I'll have issues there too. Spending $4500 to find out those issues doesn't strike me as value for money.

[LTZ C20]

Yea ATK is a good company. Their engine building shops are setup pretty much like a new factory, it's a huge facility. I know what you mean about problems with engines you build yourself. Been there, done that.