How about some tips regarding buying a used engine. What should I look for? I'm looking at a 383 small block chevy complete from carb to flywheel. It has the usual stuff Airgap intake, Holley carb, etc.. It is still in vehicle, so I can hear it run. Is there anything specific I should check out to see if it a good deal. They are asking $800.

 

make sure you can here it start cold, look for smoke, make sure the exhaust seems ok(smell,ect.), let it warm up, check the oil(probably just changed), check for leaks (oil, coolant), if it sounds good, no leaks and it all seems good, go for it. although you have no way to make sure it is a 383 , see if the seller has receipts, ect.