I know I've posted this question a few times, but I have a new spin on it I think. I eventually want to replace my TBI 305. It's running great now, so there's no problem waiting a year or so. I hope. But here's the question. I was thinking about swapping an LS1 into my car. But I read that it could be costly and requires many custom fabricating. I was wondering, what would be my most cost effective choice? An LS1, LT1, or a 350? I eventually want some serious performance, but I don't have an endless money supply. So, should I get a 350 and mod the hell out of it? An LT1, and do the same, or would none of the previous keep up with an LS1? I hope I'm not rambling, and I am making sense. Thanks so much, in advance.

 

Get a 350. Billions of racers can't be wrong.

 

Hey thanks, anyone else feel free to throw in any suggestions too. Also, is it possible to make a 350 keep up with an LS1? On a budget? I don't want my car to be like everyone else's too. I plan on putting a Knight Rider front nose, a 4th gen rear wing, a 4th gen style ram air hood (as to which one, I am still going back and forth, suggestions???) and a jet black piant job. So I don't want JUST a 350 powered third gen. See what I am saying?? Anyway, thanks for the suggestion.

 

Go with the 350. You can get more power out of it than doing an LS1 swap for a fraction of the cost.

 

Hey thanks. I was hoping some people woud say that. So, say I got a 350, what kind of things could I do to it, before I put it in the car? Anything to make it more reliable and faster. My aim is to beat LS1's and such. More thatn just a Rice punisher! Thanks,

 

Build up a 350 with good heads, cam, forged internals and you'll be pushing low to mid 400 hp/tq.

 

Take it to a good machine shop. Some times you can get away with a Napa machine shop if they are reputable. The more they can do the better they generally are. Tell them you want the block "squared." If they say OK then you are in good shape if they give you a funny look ask them if they can line bore&hone. That's a rarely used expensive machine. If they say yes, then you just had a communication break down. Then procede to tell them you want a short block that can handle 500 + HP reliabley. Tell them you want splayed steel main caps. Show up with lots of money. Make sure these guys know you aren't screwing around and want a quality piece. You want forged pistons, rods, and crank, and want it internally balanced as well as they can. Balancing to within a gram shouldn't be out of the question. Within a tenth is starting to split hairs. If you buy your own stuff talk to them about it first and see if you can get a deal. Sometimes it's cheaper over the internet, because you don't have to pay sales tax. Take your heads to them as well and get the springs balanced, get the heads ported, and a good 3 or 5 angle valve job done. Also have your intake manifold and gasket, so they can port match. A real good shop will walk you through the build and help you select all of the parts that you'll need. If they're d!cks about it, then take your business somewhere else. Having an engine built should be fun, not a hassle. Just make sure to communicate your goals well.

 

Hey thanks! So, approximatly how much would you think would be a reasonable amount to spend? I have an uncle who I REALLY trust and wouldn't screw me on the deal. I have a great deal of respect for him. Also, I would appreciate and suggestions for parts, and such for the buildup. I am mostly concerned about performance and reliability. I understand that those two are hard to come by in a package, but I am concerned with performance without much cost for reliability. am I making any sense? Thanks to everyone in advance!