I am looking at a complete engine build project with a goal of around 400hp. I have potentially two different starting points: a LT1 out of a '93 Camaro or a 4-bolt 350 out of a late 70's pickup thats not been modded. The old 350 has been sitting outside for 2 years and had water inside the heads. It was ran in a rock crawler before it was taken out. I can get it given to me for free or the LT1 for minimal money. The LT1 had been smoking some before being taken out. If I go with the LT1, I would be thinking of converting to a carb. I don't know if I would ever put it in my '84 T/A or not, but I want to build one right taking my time as money comes available. What would be my better path to choose?

is the 350 froze up? or does it turn over? And what do you have to spend to get the LT1?

Sounds like either would need at least a basic rebuild. Of the two, I'd go for the LT1. Stronger bottom end, better heads, better intake, already has a roller cam setup, and the EFI system is excellent on those.

93 Lt1s are kind of lame though, kind of like the 98 LS1s

Ugly ducklings

'93 aren't really all that different than any other year... my '97 isn't much different aside from the vented optispark. '93 is an easier year to swap into a 3rdgen though, as its got a similar fuel system hookup to the TPI cars (if I remember right) unlike the later years that used the plastic fuel lines. Its also got a TB that works with a regular 4L60... doesn't have to be the 4L60E.

And its still going to make 275hp, unlike the wimp from the '70s that *might* make 180hp.

Wierd intake, wierd shaped fuel rails, terrible ECM (not even a PCM yet), old style opti, old style everything really

Fuel hookups are the same for all LTx engines, all were quick connects. Dr/pass side changed from vette to others

ECM is similar to the old 90-92 SD TPI's, but compared to the newer LTx PCMs its a Nintendo box vs PS2

It got the 4L60 as did all Fbodys after 89. The ECM flat out couldnt control the E class trans until 94 when it changed to a PCM

What about converting the LT1 to a carb motor? That may be what I would be looking at doing if I were to put it in my Trans Am, I dont want to fool with any of the computer additions in this car. Would the LT1 be a better path as a carb motor?

Ok so convert the LT1 to a '94/95 PCM. Its not hard or expensive. LT1 is still the better choice.