Finally got started on the truck, what a mess the PO left me. Here are some pictures of our progress.

Have determined that the SB350 that was in it has seen its last day. Will put a 383 in it. Could any of you that have purchased a crate motor please advise on whom you got the motor from and your satisfaction with the motor. Looking at a company called Prestige Motor out of North Carolina, Performance Chevy out of Phoenix and Ross Automotive Machine out of Lapeer, MI. If any of the board members know of these companies, I would sincerely appreciate any information you might have about their reputations. Thanks all, wish me continued luck.

http://i1292.photobucket.com/albums/...psba7bebec.jpg

 

I bought mine through our local dealer, quick and easy

 

I built my 383. Just ordered all the parts and it was educational.

 

Hello from Maine, D!

I don't have any info on those three engine builders, but.....When I was working on a '57 Chevy project several years ago I bought a crate engine from these folks in Phoenix. (see link below) They are still selling the same 327 engine today for the same price but at the time they were offering free shipping and still are today apparently. I made out like a bandit because it had to travel 3,000 miles. They honored the ad, and I got a very nice engine that still runs great today. I've had no issues with the purchase, very happy. They were very good to deal with. I checked to see if they had any Ford engines to compare with the Chevy prices. Ummm, they don't. You get more horsepower from a small block Chevy for about $700 less. But if you want to keep it all Ford they do have a 302 engine.

I looked at all your pictures and see a truck that looks way more solid than most found around here. Well worth putting a new engine in it and drive it with a big smile on your face for years. Good luck with it and I know what you mean about previous owners 'work'. I had to tear apart my whole truck and change or fix everything but the frame. Wasn't planning on doing this much to it but it kind of was necessary to make it safe and reliable.
<edit holy="" smokes="" they="" are="" offering="" free="" shipping="" still="" !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!="">

Tom

http://www.ebay.com/itm/CHEVY-327-335HP-CRATE-ENGINE-TUFF-DAWG-ENGINES-/161144555675?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item2584f6c89b
.</edit>

 

Used a 383 from perf in a buddies nomad . Awesome motor. No shipping involved here cause we live here.. Kind of convenient too!! Had great customer service when he purchased . Let me know if you need someone to do any leg work. They are only about 30 minutes from the house.
Curt

 

Also have a couple connections at a local Chevy dealer on a crate motor. Might be able to save you a few bucks. Might be worth a look.

 

I built my 383, it is a clone of a 383HT for quite a bit less than the cost of a 383HT crate motor.

 

You say you have knowledge of Performance Chevy out of AZ? Would like to talk to you if possible. PM me please.