Calling all motorheads...

My original 1986 305TPI motor is leaking coolant like a seive. As far as I can tell it has a leaky intake manifold AND a leaky water pump gasket. Other than that it runs like a champ. I will soon begin ripping all the crap off the top and front of the motor as I seek to fix these obvious problems. What do you guys suggest I consider in terms of performance upgrades as long as I've got her all torn down? Cam? What are the ramifications of putting in a new cam, etc... I am very intimidated by the Gen III computer console moderated, TPI motors. Am I worrying about a whole bunch of nothing? I don't want to spend a ton, considering that anything I do will not change the fact that this is still a TPI 305. Am I better off blowing this whole repair off and eventually trashing it in favor of a 350 LS1 implant in a year? I am not really that concerned about keeping it original. But going with a crate motor would bring with it a whole new world of compatibility problems, wouldn't it? HELP!

 

It all depends on what you want to do in the long run. If you just want to your car a little faster than stock and get good mileage etc. Then go ahead and get some parts for the 305. But if your sure you want a bigger motor down the road I say go ahead and get the bigger motor. Its not very hard to swap if you get the right motor and swap the cpu components necassary for a 305 to 350(or whatever). The zz4 is a really good crate motor for TPI you could look into that. I really wouldnt go Ls1 unless your rich which most 3rd gen owners are not. The 305 can be made pretty potent aswell. Let me know exactly what your goals are(350hp, low 13's, etc.) and your budget.

 

I put a cam in my 305tpi. Had some minor problems after.
Actually lost power unless you do the exhaust.
Chip would help altho I haven't done it yet.
Now when I am idling for a while it will start to heat. Not that it will go into the red but it will creep to half.
Don't put in a cam unless you do the exhaust before or at the same time.

LB9GTA

 

Just go LS1 they are they best thing since sliced bread. With 15* they have tons of potential and will make tons of power!

 

stay true and loyal to the sbc and bbc, they'll never let you down. :hail: