I'm looking around on craigslist for a 350 engine/block for my iroc. I'm seeing several '90s vortech motors from pickups and stuff. Are these blocks a suitable replacement for my TPI 5.0 block?

Thanks

 

A Vortec block would be fine. But, I don't know anything about a vortech block.

 

Sounds like you know at least a little bit. Are they hyd roller compatible?

 

The '96-up Vortec truck engines have roller lifters. They are Gen I type blocks, same as '87-up one-piece rear main seal roller lifter passenger car engines. They'll have PM rods as well.

A pretty good base for an engine build, whether TPI or something else.

 

Exactly the info I'm needing. Will they all have vortec heads as I assume?

 

Yes, just be careful and make sure you're getting a 5.7 liter, and not 5.0 liter. They look the same externally.

 

Good point. I'll be sure and check bores. I hadn't heard of a vortec 5.0, but I guess someone out there could make one and try to pawn it off to some sucker. Any idea what side the dipstick is on on these engines?

 

The 5.0 Vortec was the "standard" V8 for those years trucks.

Dipstick is on the passenger side.

 

Sounds like I'd better be extra careful. I can get my TPI manifold on there can't I? I know I can get a $500 vortec manifold from S.D., but I'd rather not waste the money if I don't have to.

 

No, your intake won't fit.

The only real negative about vortec heads is the bolt pattern. You must buy an aftermarket TPI base to run your TPI on those heads.