https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/059/7353K7/10002/-1

This is the link to an engine that comes with some other attachments. I am wondering if I can swap this into my 1987 IROC camaro. Any tips or advice helps.

 

Yes...

 

This is about as straight forward as it gets. You might have to do some fuel pressure adjustments but that's about it.

 

But why would anyone bother with a flat-tappet engine any more? And the 8.6:1 static compression is really not going to create a lot of excitement. Do they offer something similar with better heads and a roller?

 

If I am being honest, I am 18 years old and unfamiliar with the words your using in relation to engines. I am trying to restore my 1987 IROC by myself. I blew my stock 305 motor, looking for a upgrade/swap. I think a 350 is my best bet I am just trying to find a reliable, not too expensive motor. Also wishing for some more HP so it is enjoyable to drive.

 

https://www.jegs.com/i/ATK-Engines/059/DCN7/10002/-1

Would this be a better alternative?

 

A little history might be useful to you.

In 1955, the small block V-8 was released. Aside from variations and minor improvements it remained basically the same until 1986, when the crankshaft was altered to use a one-piece elastomeric lip-type oil seal at the rear main bearing opening. That took the place of the piece of rope that was stuffed in there since 1955, and all but permanently eliminated the common real main seal leakage found in the SBC after some mileage was accumulated.

The following year, the other end of the block was altered and lifter valley was modified to accept a roller lifter design. That made the valve lifters in the SBC a virtual "lifetime" design instead of the "wear item" that they had been previously. That also insured that cams and liters would survive the newer engine oils that would no longer have zinc-phosphate wear additives, removed because they were deemed an environmental hazard.

In short, for maximum consistency and longevity, a one-piece rear main seal (RMS) and roller lifters are almost a necessity. It is a near certainty that your '87 has a roller design, and going backward wold likely be disappointing at least, as well as limiting the potential for a better cam profile.

The engine listed in the first post is a one-piece RMS design, but also lists a flat-tappet cam and lifters. I personally cannot imagine why anyone would bother with a flat-tappet cam for anything other than a race engine which is not expected to accumulate more than a few hundred miles before being opened up again for service and/or modification. It makes no sense at all for a street engine when the better alternative is so common, having been around since 1987.

I can't believe that an engine rebuilder would have done that except to hit a competitive low-price point, because "cheap" is really the only way to characterize that.

 

Thank you a lot Vader, i'll be sure to shoot for a one piece rear main seal and roller cam/lifters instead of flat tappet. I appreciate the help.