At this point it looks like I need to find another engine for my 94. I found a 5.0L in an 89 that runs good and I was wondering how different is the 89 from my current engine. It looks like the older engine has less hp and torque for one and distributors might be different and perhaps even cam. I've done a lot of searching around but I can find any specifics. This would probably be more than just a plug and play swap?

 

whats wrong with rebuilding the one you have ?

 

Possible cracked block, not enough money, etc...

 

The 94 has a roller cam in it , and the 89 is flat tapet , the 89 would work but i wound look for a 94-96....Lew

 

I'm just looking at what I could possibly afford right now. Also the I can physically see the 89 engine run.

 

Time all is said and done, you may be better off saving up for a rebuilt 302 long block. Of course you want to deal with a reputable local dealer that will stand behind the warranty. The 302 is a popular engine so they would be fairly cheap. I would guess maybe 1000 to 1200 dollars exchange for a long block.

 

might want to think about a 351 !

 

That's way more than I can afford now. I don't have any other choices other than find a cheap engine or just sell the truck for parts.

 

Looked into that, can't find any in that year range that I can afford either.

 

Well then just get the 89 , you can switch the roller cam over to the 89 & distributer to , is your truck mass air ??

 

could you find just a block and then switch all your internals from the old one to the new one ( ya not the best way to do things but it can work ) have done it myself before !

 

....You can't just do that , thats a total rebuild that he dosn't have the money for...Lew

 

No. I don't think it has an MAF.

 

The 89 motor is a direct swap-in but you'll be disappointed with the power output unless you swap in the '94 cam and roller lifter assembly.. which the '89 block is compatable with. These parts should not show any significant wear either so there's no problem transferrig them to the other motor. I'd also suggest installing a new timing chain when you do this and then you should have a pretty good motor for as long as you want to keep the truck.

 

Thanks Conanski, that's what I was hoping to hear. All that you suggest is do-able. A new chain and gears is a good idea since it'll be easy with the engine removed.
I'd probably have swap the distributor with the cam as well, correct?