I got a 92 rs Camaro 25th anniversary.got it cheap cause no engine but still has auto trans. the original 305 h.o. was gone due to throwing a rod but the #187 heads was rebuilt and came with the car. I have a buddy that want to sell me his 1986 l98 with trans. and wiring harness. got a 1986 305 pickup motor on my engine stand but thinking about a early 90s 350.wanting a painless swap. still has tbi. just gonna be a daily driver for now. thanks for any advise.

 

I'd say the simplest swap would be your pickup 305.everything should work as stock.however if you want a hot rod the 305 isn't it.

 

Welcome aboard thirdgen.org.

Just some tech details here: the "HO" engine was available from '83-'85 model years only (very few produced in '86). It was a carbureted 305. '92 RS has TBI (as you note below), but that is not a carburetor. The LO3, as it's known, was the base V8 in 3rd gens from '88 to '92. 187 heads are "swirl port" for improved fuel economy and emissions, but are performance-limited (if you have future goals in that direction).

From an '86 Vette? The L98 wasn't available in '86 f-bodies. A couple of issues to address if you go that route.

If "painless swap" and "daily driver" are your primary goals, then either choice is viable. Both have minor issues to address.

 

Kinda leaning to a crate 350.

 

Are you thinking a GM crate, rebuilt crate, or what?

 

gm crate from summit

 

thank you for the info this is my first Camaro so any info is greatly appreciated.i thought the h.o. was what came in my 92 rs 25th anniv. will I have to change the computer if I go to a 350 crate instead of a 305?

 

The TBI is a "speed density" (commonly referred to as "SD") system. That means the computer makes decisions about fuel and spark based on table values for throttle position, intake manifold vacuum, barometric pressure, engine temperature, air temperature, O2 voltage, and engine speed. There isn't any mass air flow sensor.

Because of this, the system is pretty sensitive to changes such as displacement, cam, or exhaust flow. While it will probably run with a 350 crate, it would run better with a chip programmed specifically for your combination.

You can check the TBI forum for more details.