Are 350’s still easy to get? If so, how would you build it?

[Lonesome7.3]

I have been told by many Chevy guys that the old faithful iron 350 is not long for this world. Because of the modern LS family 350’s are getting scrapped as fast as they can be dug up. I am not sure if that is completely accurate but I can see some truth in it.

Anyhoo, I have an itch I have been dying to scratch. I have never built a Chevy and I would like to change that. I would like to get a hold of an old square body and start over with it. Of course the engine would be a main focus point. I would like to use a tried and true 350 with some mild mods. This truck will be built for cruising and running down the highway. With a leveled suspension and a two to three inch drop I want it to look as good as it runs. If you had a 350 dropped off and told to have your way with it, how would you build it? What internals would you use and what types of mods would you prefer?

 

[Zembonez]

The 350 was a great old engine. They are getting more rare these days simply because they haven't been made for a good number of years.

If I wanted to build an older truck, I'd put a modern LS engine in it. Cheap. Plenty of aftermarket parts available for them. You can even get a carb intake and run a carb if you like.

 

[Stumpuller6.5]

If I were given a 350 I`d sell it for an LS. Things have really changed, and ease of parts and options goes to the new LS.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

I did not know you could carb and LS.

I know almost nothing about Chevy. So I am sure there is a lot I do not know.

 

[Zembonez]

You can do anything with an LS that you could do with an old 350... and they are literally everywhere.

http://www.superchevy.com/technical...lock_chevy_engine_timing_control/viewall.html

Read up here. Lots of info! http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/index.php

 

[Lonesome7.3]

I can see how the LS would be a better choice. But I like how clean and simple the engine bay can appear with a carbed 350. it also gives it that "old" look. However, I bet there are ways to make that LS look old. At least I would thik there is.

Cool article by the way. Very good information.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

Another reason I am interested in a 350 is the cost of rebiuld kits. Those things cost almost nothing for all new internals and gaskets. Even the stroker kits are damned reasonable.

 

[onac255]

Another reason I am interested in a 350 is the cost of rebiuld kits. Those things cost almost nothing for all new internals and gaskets. Even the stroker kits are damned reasonable.

There is a reason why they are cheaper...because they have to be to make sense.

 

[Lonesome7.3]

Maybe it is my fear of new things but LS's seems a little outside of my skill level. That and I am not use to Chevies.

 

[nubuilder]

I'm sticking with the 350 because 1)I have a Whipple for it, 2)I have a marine intake for it, 3)my exhaust is already done (including headers), and 4)it came stock in the truck. Basically, I'm too far into it to even think about swapping to an LS. (some of you guys may see it otherwise, but that's my view)

I do see where you getting at with the "clean/old" look of the engine bay. Now I know why they put those plastic covers on all the new engines! (again, my opinion)


If I were to start fresh (no matter the truck) with it completely stock and in need of an engine, I'd probably seriously consider the LS.