I am very interested in building up a new engine using a 350 or a 400 small block this summer, and I was wondering what chances I have of actually finding either in decent condition in a junkyard in southern california. The last junkyard I was in "Pick Your Part" had plenty of engines; I actually found a 305 and a 350 sitting in the trunk of an old camaro. I never found anything larger, though.

What would I expect to pay for an old engine that I find in a junkyard? I wish I had asked them about it last time.

How well would ported aluminum L98 heads work on a 400, if I managed to get my hands on one? Any input is appreciated.

 

I have a 400 4bolter I got out of a junkyard a couple of months ago,I swapped a mazda wreck for it and got the tranny(700R)and a posi rear for a 3rd too it was in an 88 bird there is a guy in the next town who is selling a couple of 400s one is carb to pan the other is just a block and crank he wants 250 for the complete one I also have my eye on another 400 for around 150 and I have a bunch of 350s that I just been collecting so around here they are cheap and kinda plentiful got a bunch of ford crap too

 

I went to junkyard near the boarder crossing by I-805. Saw lots of 350's and a few 400's. I even saw a 1984 Pontiac TransAM (I am guessing with a 350) with a fully functonal hood scoop. Get in touch with me if you want more info.

 

Thats about an hour and a half south of me, south south california. Hell, thats south san diego I have a friend with a pickup that goes to TJ a lot, so that might be an idea.

 

Saw a 400 in a 76 bird today at Ecology in San Diego. Also saw a 506(?) in an old cadi...

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85T/A 305/QJ work in progress.

 

LA area? I hear there are some decent places up in the valley, but everything central is pretty much picked clean from what I have seen, too damn many people around here. You have to go when they are putting new cars out if you want the good stuff.