I have an 87 GTA W/350TPI. I just bought it, and it has motor problems. They haven't pulled the engine yet, but it has 2 dead cyclinders, with a knock in the belly.
I knew that there was a problem going into it, and I am trying to find the Best solution for my $$$. I dont want to spend over 2K, and I am hireing the work done.
I am planning on keeping this car, and I want LOTS of HP!! But I can do it in Phases ie...Headers, exhaust ignition, chip etc.
OK...now for my question, do I rebuild my existing engine, and if so should I get LT1 heads if mine need reworked? How about a new cam? or any hi-tech stuff while I am in there? Or should I get a crate engine or a rebuilt engine.I seen a 350 ci 390 hp, but I cant afford the $2795 price tag on that. I want whatever I do to be straightforward, I cant afford to pay up the ying-yang for custom work. I want the most Bang for my buck.(Who doesn't though) How about a low mileage pull-out at a salvage yard? what should I step up to? Please give me your advise!!!

 

I would just rebuild your stock engine, the 350 TPI can make some good HP. Just bore it out to a 355 or make stroke it to a 383. Maybe also go with some forged pistons and things to strengthen up the bottom end while you are at it. And maybe go with a little better cam. Then just upgrade as you have more money. Then you could port your stock heads for now, and get some better heads later. Its really all up to you. Just remember that as much as you would like to reach your ultimate HP goal, you can't do everything at once, you have to take steps, unless your rich of course, just decide which steps are most logical or you. Decide what would be best and go for it.