Hey everyone, good to see you again. This summer I'm rebuilding the 350 5.7L TPI out of my '89 GTA. I am taking an automotive fundamentals class at my local college, and have access to a borring (spelling) machine, and probably some new pistons and such. I was wondering what I upgrade to get some good horses and toque improvement out of the car.

It has 125,000 miles on it, keep that in mind. Not a ton, but I'm sure it could use a rebuild. Let me know! Also, my budget is not infinite- try to let me in on the cost-effective upgrades first. Obviously turbo is out of the question.

Looking foreward to your advice.

 

Bump

 

Boring it may not be strictly necessary, but if you want to learn, go ahead. I'd suggest you choose pistons with about a 12cc reverse dome (dish) if you're going to keep it basically a TPI 350. All you should really need at 125,000 is a new timing set, new oil pump, new gaskets, and new valve seals. But you want more performance on a budget, so start with new valves. No need to go larger, but do get one-piece, stainless, swirl-polished valves with undercut stems. The best deal on these is $80/set from www.competitionproducts.com and once you have them, put a small 30-degree back cut on each of them.

 

Would aluminum heads be out of the question? How about a cam, fairly easy upgrade and not to costly.

You can also look at 1.6 ratio roller rockers from Comp Cams, I really like my set.

And what about some mild porting, then port match the intake components.

 

I'm interested in rebuilding my 350 and still researching what I can on it. Mine is at over 200,000 miles, would my rebuild be any different then? I've actually never rebuilt an engine so any and all information is helpful. Also can you recommend any resources on learning everything that goes into a rebuild?

 

Thanks a lot man, very specific, that's what I like. Pistons, what price range are those in for all 8?

 

I'm looking at the competition products page, the listing price for a master rebuild kit Chev 350 (87-92 Except VIN J, P, 8), w/Flat Top Pistons
Bore: .040"
Rod Bearings: .020"
Main Bearings: Std.
is priced at $520.
But you said reverse dome pistons which obviously is not the same as flat top pistons, and I don't see a master kit for a 350 that has anything other than the flat tops..

And amazingly my mom agreed to pay for this since it's part of my college class. LOL!

Gotta love tax returns.. But yeah man let me know.