I'm doing my first engine swap. A guy is giving me a Vortec 2bolt main 350 block and crank that he said is from a 95-97 GM. The block is in good shape with no cracks or anything. I want around 250-300 hp and am on a budget. I would be going into an 86 camaro. The engine in it is an lg4. I plan on running a carb because it is easier. Would this engine swap go smoothly or am I asking for trouble?

 

I don't see any apparent problems. Im pretty sure they have the same flywheel bolt pattern. The true Vortec blocks are the 96 and up. Are you getting heads with the engine, or just shortblock?

 

Depends. Are you subject to emissions testing/inspection? If so, you've got some "hurdles" to traverse.

Regardless, you'll need a special intake manifold to fit those heads (assuming you're getting the Vortec heads with the block). If you abandon the computer controlled system, the overall pain will be diminshed (although the cost will be higher), but you won't pass emissions, and your transmission torque converter (assuming automatic) will not lock without the computer (retrofit kit available).

If you keep the computer controlled LG4 system, you'll have to plumb exhaust up to the intake manifold so the EGR valve will work.

If you are only getting the Vortec block, forget the above and put 67cc World S/R Torquer heads on top of the block ('86-earlier style). Everything will then bolt up and work fine.

I hope you're also planning on a complete new exhaust system (headers to rear bumper), and a dual-snorkel air cleaner.

 

I am only getting the block w/out heads. If I ran two cats and a crossover on the exhast would it pass emissions with the 67cc World S/R Torquer heads? Thanks for all the help!

 

Depending on the pistons currently in your block, i would suggest the 58cc vortechs (cheaper), or mill the S/R's (better) to 58cc so you can keep the current pistons and get a decent compression ratio. I have also heard good things about the 268H high energy cam. If you go with the S/R's, the wieland stealth is a good intake, but with the vortechs youre limited in intakes. Grab a non CC carb (600-700 CFM preferable) from a junkyard and rebuild it yourself, swap over accessories and pullies from your current motor, and you got some decent power pretty cheap. You will need to address exhaust and torque converter problems like five7 said, however. As for emissions, my fix is to go to a junkyard, pull a recent sticker off and slap it on your car. A cop would have to check the VIN number on the sticker to know, and i havent heard of a cop doin that, although its possible. Sorry for the length.
Matt