19Pontiac88

Well, money's tight, and I have to put my 350 in my '88 Bird, or else I doubt it will ever run again. I'm planning on putting on a bunch of parts that are on the 305, as well as the whole 350 throttle body. It'll be, the intake, front accessories, and starter, as well as the 350's oil pan. I'm sure eventually I swap everything out with new stuff, but since this car's been sitting for a while I have to replace the brakes, tires, and a couple other small things at the very least before it's road worthy again. Anyone to tell me otherwise? This is my first engine swap on one of my cars, so forgive me if I seem like I don't know what I'm talking about, lol.

89junkyardgta

Sounds fine. Just check and make sure the starter is good AND is correct for the 350. I have in the past run into two different starters for the SBC's, one is the large, old school starter that has been used forever, the other is a smaller version that I haven't seen in a while, but I know is out there and is specifically for the 305 cars and trucks. I accidentally used the small starter on a 350 and it worked, but I don't think it lasted very long. Oh, and put a 350 chip in the computer. A 350 is not going to like a 305 computer chip

19Pontiac88

got the 350 ecu with the motor, I shouldn't have a problem with that.

89junkyardgta

Alright then, go to it!

Air_Adam

There is no starter that fits only one size of SBC. They can potentially all work on any SBC.

There are, however, two different starter bolt patterns for the block (changed in the early '80s - staggered and straight patterns) and two different sized flywheels (168 tooth and 153 tooth).

Some blocks are drilled with both patterns, but not most. Its not hard to add a bolt hole if required though, for you to use the starter you need.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

More than just the starter depends upon the 350. If it's '85-older, the oil pan and flexplate won't fit. If it's '79-older, the dipstick will be on the driver's side and will get in the way of stock exhaust manifolds.

Since you said "350 throttle body", that's probably good news because it means an '87-later 350. And, everything from the 305 should fit.

19Pontiac88

yeah, the 350 is an '87, 4 bolt main. The 305 is an '88.

Air_Adam

Shouldn't have any starter issues between the two blocks. They should also both be able to use the same flywheel/flexplate, as they will both be 1pc rear seal blocks as well. Same dipstick locations, same oil pans will work, same accessories will work.

If the 350 block came out of a truck originally, it may or may not have had the roller lifter machinework done at the factory, like your 305 will have already, but most competent machine shops should be able to do that. Its basically just a trim off the top of the stand so its flat, then drill and tap the stand for the spider bolts. I *think* thats all there is to it anyway.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

Might have to mill down the tops of the lifter bores, and machine, drill & tap the cam retainer plate mount.