Chuck84TA

What do you guys think? ...worth it?

http://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/pts/3867305692.html

Chuck

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

It's an example of a basic, high-mileage 350.

Jim85IROC

iTrader: (2)

I think it's a great start point. Roller cam blocks are the best blocks to get, and the heads are decent if you don't have the cash for new heads. You could even replace valve guide seals and run it as-is while you save for the rebuild.

Zach/90\irocZ

iTrader: (6)

yea good starting point to grow on.. plain jane roller 350 with high mileage.. $300 is decent deal on long block ..about as theres a couple routes you can take. depending on end goals and what you want from the engine .. like stated above you can rebuild now or rebuild later ..

Next weak link would be your T5 if your mating it with the 350

Chuck84TA

My goals would be

1) Driveability. Does not need constant babysitting- (tuning, timing adjustments, carb adjustments, etc.)

2) 320-350 hp 380-400tq

3) Upgrade the heads to aluminum, if they are not already. ZZ4 heads.

4) Cam- ZZ4

5) Currently have brand spankin new Hooker 2055's that need a home.
and y pipe..

6) Using my current Q-jet .. change the secondary metering rods

7) Change the computer to ZZ4 specs.

8) Replace my T-5 with a rebuilt WC T-5 that I currently have as insurance. No plans to clutch dump or completely beat on it. Autocross is a possibility however.

I was considering just working on building up my 305, but it looks obvious to me that for the same price I can have more hp/tq. That is very attractive.

Chuck

Zach/90\irocZ

iTrader: (6)

Wc t5 and t5 are the same yes wc has some stronger parts but still the same weak case and with that amount of torque .I would suggest a t56

other than that sounds like a good plan and fun

No replacement for displacement lol

rebuild the 350 while you drive 305 to its grave ..that way you can rebuild it and collect parts and then throw it in and be done ..with minimum down time ..I know its tempting to throw it in now..but its already out and I dont like double work lol

Keep us posted on what you do

Jim85IROC

iTrader: (2)

ZZ4 heads and stock L98 heads are very similar in their power making capabilities. I wouldn't waste money on ZZ4 heads. If you want aluminum, Dart, Trick Flow and others make great heads that aren't any more than new ZZ4 heads. I'd also consider finding a better cam than the ZZ4 cam. That grind really isn't anything to get excited about. I can certainly understand wanting to keep the build mild, but good component selection can get you more power with equal drivability and the same overall expense.

Chuck84TA

Good points.

The WC T-5 certainly is a weak link. I still have the T-5, I figure I will just use it till it croaks then put in the WC T-5 then when that croaks I will consider the T56. Just got a new aluminum driveshaft though...can I still use it with a T56?
As far as a cam, which kind of cam would you put in given what I want to do?

Thanks for the input guys!

Chuck

Chuck84TA

So it looks like all I need to do is replace the oil pump, water pump, maybe the timing chain, gaskets, seals. Probably wont need to touch the pistons and/or crankshaft...but I might anyway since it does have 100K+ miles.. And yes, I still have my 305 in my car anyway so I can pace myself and make a real nice build without the pressure of "Git er done"

Zach/90\irocZ

iTrader: (6)

Ill do some research on cam so you can get right cam to match heads and intake and exhuast you plan to run .. but LT4,LT1, Comp XE, XFI, HR Cams seems to be the popular cams ..but do you research on that

Just save for 4th gen lt1 t56 bolts right up
You can use your driveshaft
All you would need is complete t56 .. Hard part is done due to the fact your already a manual car no need to make holes etc

That's what I would do ..take your time and do your research

Chuck84TA

Thanks for the help!

Actually one of the most enjoyable parts of a build like this is doing your own research, asking informed questions, and increasing your own knowledge base so there is more thoughtfulness and confidence in this whole thing.

The feeling of accomplishment alone, along with the experience to pass along to others is worth a lot.

Chuck

1gary

Even a mild build needs considerations for the links I am about to leave you.The good thing is it does sound like your willing to learn and grow from it.

http://www.rbracing-rsr.com/compstaticcalc.html

http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/w...pression_ratio

http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/wiki/Quench

http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/w..._compatibility

These are not opinions.Rather is is how it works.