nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

Help Please. I want to swap a a late model 350 into my 83 Z. I have a motor of unknown origin. The block #: 14093668. The head #: 168, then 14102191. I have noticed the center intake bolts do not look like they are angled in the same way as the outer bolts. A throttle body intake is still on the motor along with a serpentine belt set up. I want to run a carb and will be changing the intake. I just want to make sure I get the one that fits the heads. BTW, it has center bolt valve covers.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

Welcome aboard thirdgen.org.

Are you sure about that block casting #? 14093638, perhaps?

Probably a 350 out of a truck. Maybe a Caprice (Roadmaster, etc.).

You need to look for an intake manifold for '87-up heads. They are available, an Edelbrock Performer would be fine with those heads (never going to be a barn burner). But, the choices are somewhat limited.

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

Thanks!! I want a cruiser with a little torque in bottom end of rpm. With 3.23 gear and 5-speed I hope this will fit the bill. Can U enlighten me as to why my choices are limited for these heads. I don't think any intake I have will work and makes me wonder what is special or different about these heads.

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

After looking on Jegs and Summit I see Vortec heads as different. I don't have vortec heads, do I? I also don't see any with egr set up. I am trying to keep this as "clean" as possible as for emissions. Does anyone have any suggestions, maybe with part numbers?

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

No, those are not Vortec heads. Search on summitracing.com for the 1987 model year. The reason the choices are limited is those two bolts on each side that are at a different angle from the rest. You can modify the center bolt holes in the older style intake, but that really isn't necessary.

EGR limits your choices even more. But, you are covered.

Based on your goals, it will be a good choice. The heads are what they call "swirl port" which induce more swirl as the air/fuel enters the cylinder for better fuel economy and reduced emissions, but limit flow for high performance applications. They'll do just fine with a Performer EGR intake p/n 3706, and your q-jet operating system. A slightly less expensive option is the Professional Products Cylcone 52009, which would be fine as well.

You will need a different flywheel, as your '83 engine is 2-piece rear main seal and this 350 is one-piece. Just get a flywheel for an '86-'92 f-body.

Keep us informed about the progress and how it turns out. I think you'll be pleased.

And, for the record, the 5-speed will be fine behind the 350 as long as you don't do high-RPM clutch dumps or try to speed shift it.

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

Again, Thanks!!!! I have researched the flywheel (on TGO) and figured out the difference in years. Even more than accepting it, I understand the need for a different flywheel due to a thread about internal and external balance on this site. I knew it was a keeper when I took four days to read the father/son 350 swap. I started reading for info and continued for pleasure!!!

I have ordered a flywheel and have looked at Summit. I hope to order the intake as time, money, and the wife allows( mainly the wife).

Great site, Great info, Great people!!!!

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

Don't get wrapped up by that internal/external balance stuff. Just a regular replacement flywheel is all you need. The Summit site doesn't help the confusion factor any, I'm afraid.

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

Slo-going!! Time and money needed. I have the 350 in place in shop, just gotta get some help pushing the Z up hill and into the shop. I hope to purchase intake this week. Quick Question...non-egr intakes are $75 cheaper more or less. Can someone stress the importance of this item? I've considered going non-egr for economic reasons but don't want to save a buck now only to spend more later.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

You didn't say, but is it fair to assume you're going to use the stock '83 carb system? That would be my recommendation.

The EGR doesn't hurt performance or economy, unlike other emissions equipment (or at least the perception of the effects of emissions equipment). But, not having it doesn't cause problems, either (other than not being legal in any of the 50 states of the United States). If you retain the original carb system, you will need to leave the EGR solenoid plugged in. Otherwise, the system will turn on the SES light and set a trouble code for the solenoid. And, you might get some mid-throttle/light load pinging that will require backing off the base timing - although it might not be any problem at all.

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

Yes, I plan on using the stock Q-jet. Just as ounces make pounds in racing, pennies make dollars in budget. If the egr is only needed to be legal, it might be important!!! I was looking at cutting some cost that were not important. I just missed a 3706 Performer on Craigslist for $100. I'll keep looking till I buy a new one. Thanks again!!!

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

Somewhat off subject... What electronics will need changing or modified for a 350 swap? Knock sensor I am aware of. Will the ECM off 305 work or do I need a 350 ECM? Does the cc carb allow for the increased cubes? Will the prom have to be reprogrammed if there are no other major changes? I am puttng AIR system, O2 sensor, manifolds w/ air tubes, cat convertor back on. Trying to stay legal, reliable, and torquey.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

I've been using a stock ECM with my 350 since 2005. Just 350 knock sensor and module.

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

what module?

nitemare70

iTrader: (4)

Just a quick thanks to all on TGO. Swap complete and running. Five7kid was right on target about the motor, not a barn burner but plenty of torque in the driving RPM. Just what I wanted!! Used the 83 cc-carb and dizzy. Runs a little rich but have not fine tuned it yet. Still have a few gremlins to work out with car but having a blast.

1ADan

iTrader: (4)

although it sounds like the OP has been taken care of, figured I'd share a source I've used before. www.mortec.com has quite the list of casting numbers and info. Helped me figure out the origins of my 400 when I got it.