Cathie,
The 283 is a good engine with better fuel economy than a 350. It's
reliable, just look how long it's lasted so far!
As far as parts go, the common parts should be available overnight at
most auto parts stores (fuel pump, water pump, etc). For example, I just
bought a carburator for my '50 from my local parts store, they got it
overnight from their warehouse, and it's less common than your's. Deep
engine parts may take longer, like a week or so, but you would only be
buying those once when you rebuild it.
You are going to hear a lot of scare stories about unleaded gas in old
engines, you don't need to worry with a stock 283. I could go into long
technical detail about why some older engines eat valve seats on
unleaded gas, but basically it has to do with high internal temperatures
and preignition, which you won't have a problem with in that 283. If you
were going to really soup it up you would need hardened seats, otherwise
no. Again just look how long it's run so far, and it's been on unleaded
gas for what, 15 years now?
If you do go with a 350 be sure it has a place for the proper motor
mounts, some late model castings are different.
Have Fun,
John
Cathie Porter wrote:
>
> Appears to be artistic expression at this point....without the rest of
> the vehicle! LOL! Guess I'd better make introductions to this group as
> I haven't seen any responses from women yet. I'm a very new owner of a
> '59 Chevy Apache Fleetside which I have had my eye on for about 5 years
> and was finally able to purchase from a friend after he decided to sell
> (wife got a new car and he got her other one..didn't want 3 vehicles) .
> My first car was '57 Chevy Bel Air when I was a junior in high school
> and loved it (wish I had it now). I have ordered numerous catalogs and
> will eventually be doing my own work on it (maintenance etc) but I work
> 2 jobs 7 days a week right now (gotta pay for the Apache) so I have a
> few questions until I get my printed material. I have a 283 V-8 in it
> (stock 3 on the tree tranny) but will eventually have to put another
> engine it. I have heard several opinions about changing from a 283 to a
> 350 because of "cost effectiveness, availability of parts, unleaded gas,
> etc. I would like any feedback on this. I'm not into "muscle" cars (no
> offense) so I don't really need more power just what would be best for
> my wallet and truck! Also any advice on parts resources....I live in
> Northern Coastal California, and need to replace a few parts...gauges
> work except speedometer, brake peddle/accelerator pads . Thanks,
> Cathie.
>
> oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
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