I have an '85 iroc-z that originally had a 5.0L HO carb motor, but now it has a 5.7L v8 out of a '79 camaro. I'm just wondering what *EXACTLY* I need to convert this engine to a 350 TPI like in the '87+ model years.

I've read through all the posts, but i couldn't quite find what i was looking for.

 

You can't make it "exactly" like the '87, because '79 doesn't have one-piece rear main seal, passenger-side dipstick, or roller lifter cam provision.

But, you can put '87-up heads on the '79 block, and a flat-tappet cam that is similar to the '87 L98 roller cam.

Otherwise, there isn't anything that would keep a '79 350 from acting like an '87-up L98.

 

Is the '87 350 better than the '79?

 

Depends upon whether you like one-piece rear main seals (I do) and factory roller lifters (I do).

Casting and machining quality are often better in mid-80's up blocks vs. mid-70's to early-80's.

 

yeah but there is usually a big difference in price and miles

 

I say stay carbed (non cc though), go open loop, and keep the electronic spark control from the LG4's ECM. There's really no reason to switch over to TPI, unless you're coming from TBI that is....

Seriously tho, consider staying carbed.

 

Yes, the older having more miles, and with poor quality control you'll find the $600 you just spent on machining is down the drain unless you spend another $600 to fix the quality problems that didn't show up until after spending the intitial machining dollars . . .

 

glad the new 350 i'm building is a late model 350! (1994ish pickup truck 4bolt main 350 roller motor, YEAH!)

 

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