Is there any way to determine if my TPI engine is a 305 of 350 without pulling the heads and measuring the bore? By my VIN it is supposed to be a 305, but I am not the original owner and I am holding out the small chance of hope that someone dropped a 350 in it. Are there casting numbers that would tell me, or maybe head numbers? The 305 and 350 used different heads, correct?

I am finding that the 350 has 500 times more parts available for modifying.

Also, if I do end up having a 305, is there anything different between the two as far as the TPI goes? If I found a 350 short block, and got some different heads, would all of my TPI stuff bolt on?

TIA

Diesel


Diese;

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91 TA 305TPI/700R4

-All stock except SLP 2OTL Stainless Catback System (However, not all stock for long!!)

 

diesel,
if you do have a 305 and want to swap to 350
your TPI will be fine, except the injectors
(19#) will have to be changed. plus if the
heads are 86 and older then the inner bolt
holes of the intake will have to be machined.
other than that, chip change and your off and
running.
airdeano

 

If the block is original or from the '80s, there will be a "5.0" or "5.7" cast onto the flange where the transmission mounts, right behind the driver's side cylinder head. The wiring harness runs right over that area, so it is not easy to see.
If the block is pre '80s (dipstick on driver's side), then there is a casting number in the same spot. There are reference books that detail what the casting numbers mean.