I want to slap myself, and feel free to indulge as well.

Looking at picking up a Camaro by trade (giving the guy some wheels I don't use, and an air compressor I have no use for). Seems like a pretty fair deal.

However, he has repeatedly ignored my question about what engine it has, whether it's V6, V8, or the 4 cyl. The more I ask, the more I'm not sure he even knows.

I'm also not even sure what year it is, as it's listed as both 1982, and 1983.

I've just recently shot him a question asking for the VIN at least, waiting on that response.

He did send me a picture, however. And though I feel I should be able to tell what it is; it's either too early, I'm too dumb, or I'm just not seeing a distinguishing feature that I should notice.

So, here's a pic of the engine:


Thoughts?

Thanks, guys!

 

im not much on the pre 1985 cars but i think thats the electronic Q-Jet 305 i think they were LO3's or L69's dont take my word for it though. Search for some pictures or engine options for those 2 years.

 

That is the carbureted 2.8L Chevy V6 that was used from '82-84. The standard version made around 110HP, the H.O. was around 135HP. I don't believe the H.O. was available in '82.

 

Finally got the VIN, checks out as a 1983 with V6, non-Berlinetta.

Time to go read up on the engine swap thread, since I have a 305 TPI sitting in my garage....

Or would the smarter idea be to just go with a carbed 350? Guess I've got some reading to do.

 

When expending money on a engine, a 350 will almost always be more bang for your buck. However, a free 305 can generally beat any 350 in cost to benefit.

 

lol

 

Free does tend to be my favorite price tag, and I do have the engine, wiring, ecm, 700R4, etc out of my Trans Am laying in my garage. Certainly would make the engine swap easier.

On the other hand, it would be nice to have a simple carbed engine, and not have to deal with fuel injection....

I put the 305 TPI up on Craigslist, looking for trades...guess I'll just see what comes along. If anything.

As a third thought. Or fourth, I've got a 1980 Z28 in my garage as well....could just leave the 2.8 in the 1983, and use the 305 for the Z28.

Need to do some reading on the 2.8. Not familiar with it at all, need to find out about it's fuel economy, reliability, etc.