I want to build a 350 using my "1988 305 TPI setup" do I need a short or long block? I think I read somewhere on here I need a long block for 87 & up engines. I tried to search for it but couldn't find anything usefull in 1-1/2 hours.
Thank you gurus.

 

a long block comes with heads, a short block doesnt, what you buy depends on what you are doing.

 

A short block is the base block and internals. A long block just has more parts, heads, maybe water pump etc. Your 305 heads would fit on the 350, raise compression, but really restrict higher rpm power. But with the TPI that might be a way to go with this. And this would make it easy to match the intake. For sure you'd want dished pistons in the engine for those heads though.

 

So a long block and short block, the "blocks" are the same size it just depends how much stuff is on them when you buy it. Is that right. A long blocks heads aren't longer than a short blocks right.
I don't want to use the 305's heads just the tpi intake part.

 

that's right will, just get more stuff. A long block, you can remove the heads, and have a shortblock....and a set of heads:

block - just the block (duh)
shortblock - block, pistons, crank, rods. Maybe oil pump, not sure.
long block - has heads
complete - intake, headers, carb, etc
turn-key - ignition system, plug wires, probably even fluids, etc etc.

porting the TPI intake while you're at it? I hear it doesn't support much HP in stock form.

 

Thanks that's what I figured, I was just getting confused with all the terms.

 

Might spend some time searching around the internet for a L98 long block. I've seen some very reasonable prices on new from GM engines in the mid 80s years. And that would be the way to go. About all you'd need would be a set of new injectors to make it work right I suspect.

 

There are no short block or long block heads, just heads. The short block refers to an eng with no heads while long block refers to an eng with heads.

Do not ask anyone for short block heads or they will think you are an idiot.