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Thanks for the help with my question regarding a book about rebuilding my engine. I'm curious about the value of rebuilding my original block so that the truck is truly "stock" vs. replacing the engine altogether. Down the road how much does this affect the value of the truck? Some have recommended that I convert to a 390 which as I understand it is just a change in the piston rods for a longer stroke. I really have no plans to sell the truck but you never know what life may bring so would hate to do something foolish. I use the truck for farm chores, hauling a 2 horse trailer and jsut enjoy driving it. What do y'all think?
I would go with the 390 if the added cost is not excessive - more power is generally a good thing, and it's not like the MPG is all that great anyway. I believe that, unless your vehicle is truly "rare" or "collectible" the issue of having an original engine or transmission is not that big of a deal. As long as the replacement is of good quality it really shouldn't make any difference.
Changing connecting rod length does not change stroke length or displacement. The change just moves the pistons higher up in the bore. To go to a 390 you must change out crank, rods and pistons.