So my '86 has the 305 that all the Iroc's came with and I'm beginning to get quite bored with it. So, I'm swapping in a 350 TPI. I was wondering if anyone could give me info on what parts (links if you've got them) to make a good 350-400hp out of the 350. Like, can I get that kind of power from Vortec heads, a cam, mini-ram intake, etc. I do plan on forging the internals or something along those lines. I don't want to hear anything about just doing a 383 (even though I'd love one) but it's just not in the realm of possibility for me right now. I just want a nice cruiser with some get up to it. Already have a beefed up trans going in this week and I am doing a rear end swap.

 

the cost between building 350 and a 383 isnt really all that much if youre replacing the entire rotating assembly with forged stuff anyway. its really just the cost of the machine work on the block. which depending on where you go can be just a couple hundred bucks.

if all you want is a nice cruiser with some get up and go, get a vortech 350 from a 90s truck, slap it in with a carb and go cruising. they are all over the place and can be had for cheap in good condition. if you want to keep fuel injection and have some cash to spend, the LS swap is the popular choice. they are becoming more and more plentiful and have a ton of aftermarket support to put one in nearly anything.

 

Most important factor you don't mention is your budget

As noted , once you start replacing the internal parts, the only cost difference of a 383 is maybe a hours worth of labor
to clearance the bottom of the bores for the larger crank ( which you can do yourself for free anyway )
Cost of all the rotating parts is identical ;350 vs 383 for a substantial power increase

 

Damnit...lol my budget is around $2500ish. I plan on just being a used 350 TPI and going from there. I want something that's basically plug and play except for changing ECU's etc.

 

No need ,
for a stockish 350 TPI all you need is a 350 TPI memcal ( tune) in your existing TPI ECM , some 22lb 350 injectors
and a 350 knock sensor to replace your 305 one
Even with a radical 383 you can still use your existing ECM with a custom aftermarket tune