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I just bought this truck knowing it needed some engine work. It has minor blow by (probably rings) and a water leak (Not the water pump or radiator hoses, already replaced them) and I am not sure where it is coming from. It also has weak power, but does start and runs decently. I figure it has a few more thousand miles on it before it gives out.
My question is, does anybody know of any low priced engine rebuilders in the California Central Valley or Bay area? Or, where can I pick up a used/new engine for a good price?
I saw an add for a remanned 351 H.O. long block for about $1100 with $150 core, but would like to spend less. I am looking for something more in the range of $500 running. Anyone have any leads or advice?
I've got some advice:-X12 : If you're gonna spend $1100, get an EFI. My conversion cost me $1300 in used parts and it's the best thing I've ever done to the truck.
http://www.webphotos.com/list_photos.asp?mi=3&smi=2&a=13217
Well, belive it or not, I kind of like the simplicity of a carb for now. I don't do any off-roading, but will be doing some light towing and hauling here and there. Gas mileage is not a major concern because I will be putting so few miles on the truck.
If I can find a nice EFI setup in a junk yard or from a wrecked truck and it turns out to be the same price, I will definitely do it. But for now I just want to stop the damn thing from dumping water all over the place when I drive it.
As for the 302 suggestion, I wonder if my computer will work with the 302. I think the heads and accessories should fit, as well as the intake and carb.
Believe it or not, I consider EFI to be FAR simpler than a carb! Every part has a purpose, and it's usually obvious. The computer will usually tell you exactly what's wrong with what part, and even then, it'll "limp home". No mystical maze of vacuum lines; no tangle of operating rods, bellcranks, & stepped cams; no 2-, 3-, & 4-port thermal vacuum valves trying to keep the thing running right under various conditions - just one computer that reads what you want & makes the engine do it.
>Believe it or not, I consider EFI to be FAR simpler
>than a carb! Every part has a purpose, and it's usually
>obvious. The computer will usually tell you exactly what's
>wrong with what part, and even then, it'll "limp home". No
>mystical maze of vacuum lines; no tangle of operating rods,
>bellcranks, & stepped cams; no 2-, 3-, & 4-port thermal
>vacuum valves trying to keep the thing running right under
>various conditions - just one computer that reads what you
>want & makes the engine do it.
I guess when you look at it that way. The flip side of that argument is you never have to worry about $300-500 computers or expensive injectors. Overall though, you are probably right about EFI.