Hello everyone!

I've been using this site to help me out for the past 2 years, always finding my answers through tons of helpfull threads and people.

But I've decided I need to ask directly as I want to be sure in starting this out.

I've decided to try and build an engine from scratch(over the course of the summer), bought some rebuild books and such to help me along the way. My carbed 305 lg4 is getting really high Kms on her (250 XXX) and want to build a project 350 engine. I'm not looking to make a 450 horse power machine, just something along the lines of 290-320.

First things first though, I need a block to start. I dont really understand the difference of a 2 bolt to a 4 bolt, i know the amount of bolts at the mounting location (i think) but is that saying a 2 bolt wont hold up as well? Will they both fit in just as easy? I'm looking at an 83 350 2 bolt that has just been hot tanked and magnafluxed (looked as in ad in bargain finder).

Thanks

 

A 2 or 4 bolt block has 2 or 4 bolts holding the center 3 main caps on. Other than that they're externally identical. Either one is suitable for a streetable engine.

 

Thanks Apeiron

Is it possible to get into the 290-310 horsepower range without having to spend $5 grand?

Also what should I look for when buying a block other then the fact it's not cracked in half?

 

A stock rebuild would easily meet those goals. The final cost will depend on what parts you're getting with the block, and what machining might be necessary .

 

Just what I wanted to here.

Would you recommend for a first time starting with a complete engine, tearing everything apart and rebuild or get a core and start from scratch,
if money was no option.

 

It doesn't really make a lot of difference either way.

 

I would look at getting a complete motor first and then tearing it down, for your first build. I personally find it easier to put something back together if I was the one who took it apart.

 

I was thinking that would make it easier, but then I'm not too sure what to look for in an engine for sale, what should i look for if its just laying in the back of some guys garage?

 

i would look at more of the general appearance than anything else... if it isnt torn down...mainly do to the fact that if it is worthless the guy might spend a little bit of time to clean it up but if it is in good shape he would want it to look like it is worth what he is asking...

if i were you i would print up the block casting numbers on mortec.com and take them with you that way there is no question about what it is maybe even head casting numbers.... mortec has saved me on a few occasions

 

That I can do. Great idea!
Where would the locations of the casting numbers be on the block and heads?

 

Whoa man, didn't notice this thread, or the fact you're in Calgary. I built my first motor last winter, give me a shout if you need some help turning wrenches or a second set of eyes/hands.

I built up a budget 350, probably makes about 350HP when it's running right . Budget kinda went out the window with the "well since i'm here", "might as well do this now", "well that'd look cool"...
I used Rod at D&W machining. He's pretty good, but a little on the expensive side, I think I got ripped off a bit. The CA dollar is so high now, buying from summit is a great idea.

Casting numbers on the heads are right on top, in between the rocker studs. The engine one will probably be xxxxxx010. That's the single most common 350 # ever.