350 engine question

[ufbugman]

My 71 has a 327 in it and it's old, lot of miles. I want to put a 350 in it, here's what I found 1989 Chevy c20 with 43k on engine and tranny th400 , I should be able to just swap that out right? I'm new to chevys so I always ask..

dfz 5.7

[truckster]

The engine will swap right over. If the 89 has a computer controlled carb, you'll need to use your old carburetor. At least I think the K20 was still running a carb in 89.

[Alex V.]

A few things that come to mind quickly are things like dipstick (right or left), fuel pump (is the block milled for it?), and if it was me (assuming you wouldn't go with some performance parts in the process) I'd strip the new engine down to bare heads and block and use all your old sheet metal, accessories, and manifolds so everything is sure to bolt up.

IIRC the heads from the throttle body trucks aren't anything special - not the worst but that may be a consideration in whether this engine is worth the trouble to swap in.

[ufbugman]

I think I might be able to get the whole truck for under $500 and resell the bodg for $200 for scarp

[James the III]

Originally Posted by Alex V.

A few things that come to mind quickly are things like dipstick (right or left), fuel pump (is the block milled for it?), and if it was me (assuming you wouldn't go with some performance parts in the process) I'd strip the new engine down to bare heads and block and use all your old sheet metal, accessories, and manifolds so everything is sure to bolt up.

IIRC the heads from the throttle body trucks aren't anything special - not the worst but that may be a consideration in whether this engine is worth the trouble to swap in.

The 89 the dipstick will be on the other side from the 327 so he can't use his oil pan or timing cover.. the ones on the 89 truck will work just fine.
the valve covers will be center bolt so the 327 ones will not bolt on. without adapters

fuel pump boss is drilled ..
his 327 intake will not bolt to the 87 up heads.. the bolt angle changed some have ovaled the holes in the intake , I've never done it.. so no idea how tricky it is to do that and it not leak.
the flexplate flywheel will need to change as an 89 will be one piece rear main seal..


If he can get the truck for 5 c-notes and it's got 43k on it..
and it's not 143k..
I'd stuff it in and call it good..
change parts after you know it's a solid piece..