I've got a 1986 Camaro, originally it was a 2.8 liter v6, and when I bought it a 305 was in it. It's now "tiring" and I don't think a tune up will keep it alive forever. So next spring I plan on having either an engine swap with a 350, but I don't have any idea how much that would cost, I'm guessing like $5,000 including labor cause I can't do that myself. So I'm wondering if that's worth it, do I need to get a new transmission or shocks or something too? It's a 5 speed stick, believe it's the orginal. Or should I have a mechanic do an engine rebuild, cause that seems like it would be cheaper. But that sounds like it would take longer and I'd still have a 305. So does anyone know what the price comparison could be between engine swap vs rebuild?

 

It is possible that a rebuild would cost less than a swap. But, many mechanics would prefer to do the swap because it would be in and out quicker, and the warranty would be on the source of the replacement engine. Very few shops do machine work and installs, so they'd have to send the engine out for rebuild, most likely, leaving a disassembled car in their stall not making them any money.

It doesn't sound like you have big performance in mind. So, consider the Goodwrench 290 HP 350. I'd say the Goodwrench 260 HP 350 and put a better cam in it, but since you'd have to pay the labor to have the cam replaced, might as well start with the 290 HP version. The crate engine is about $2k (perhaps a little more, depending upon the freight charges), assume about $500 for labor, plus this is the right time to replace the clutch and maybe flywheel.

FWIW, it's a rare case when I would recommend rebuilding a 305 (usually overseas members who don't have good access to crate engines).

 

Alright, so swap it and get a better cam. So why does the flywheel and the clutch need to be replaced?

And will I need a cowl hood if I get a 350, one that's carborated?

 

the hood depends on your choice of intake manifold. If you go this route, any of the manifolds that are a wise match to this engine will fit under your stock hood.

 

As for the clutch and flywheel, it's just wise to attend to these when they're so accessible. Have the flywheel resurfaced, and replace the clutch for peace of mind. Lastly, kid was suggesting the 290 HP 350 so you wouldn't have to put a better cam in the Goodwrench 350. Doing that would mean no engine warranty, so no shop will be eager to do that. The cam in the 290 hp 350 isn't very good, but it'll be under warranty from GM.

 

i thought id post that maybe you should take your time about this engine swap and do it yourself. i know you said that isnt possible but is that becuase of lack of tools or know how? id say from only a year of trying to read up and learn im much more comfortable taking on an engine swap on my own(im stuck in the lack of funds area) however i was in your shoes about a year ago now im double checking a parts list for a supercharged 454 just have to figure out a few things(like relocation) sorry alittle off topic but if you give trying to learn a chance you'd be surprised about what you can learn.

 

Well I wish I knew how to do that stuff but I have no clue, no tools for that, and I don't even have a garage. More than half the things people say on this site I have no clue about what they're talking about. I'm putting the camaro away soon, taking it out in spring, but I'm going to basic training during the summer so I don't have time to learn about car stuff, and by then I'd have a lot of money for an engine swap and other stuff.