Wayne:
If you're into rebuilding engines (have the knowledge, tools and time), you
could probably get away with rebuilding your 400 (although the 2-bolt main
bothers me a bit). Most gutsy towing engines with good low-end torque are
4-bolt mains and they tend to last longer.
If you want peace of mind, have the money and like 'turn-key' (someone else
does the work), I'd go with a 383 CID crate motor. Many vendors sell them
(GM, Edelbrock, Summit, just to name a few). There are several variations
on the crate motor, carburated, fuel injected, high torque and etc (most
advertise they run on pump gas [no premium]). Sounds from what you plan to
do with your vehicle it would be nice to have a new engine with a warranty.
My 2 cents, I'd peddle the 400 and stick in a crate motor with some guts and
a warranty. Whatever you do, have fun and good luck!
Carl Ham
'56 Chevy TF Stepside
Pontiac, IL
>From: "Wayne" <wroworth@tampabay.rr.com>
>Reply-To: "Wayne" <wroworth@tampabay.rr.com>
>To: "oletrucks list" <oletrucks@autox.team.net>
>Subject: [oletrucks] Engine Overhaul - Which way is the right way?
>Date: Thu, 4 Sep 2003 18:28:09 -0400
>
>Ok guys. Ready for the next step. Getting the engine to a new, not to worry
>state. Would like your opinion on what to do with my engine. Let's open it
>up
>and not worry about budget for now.
>My 1973 400 Chevy small block was overhauled by the prior owner 5-6 years
>ago.
>Have no idea how many miles are on the overhaul. I love the engine's torque
>for towing and would like to keep the model. I don't know yet what shape
>the
>engine is in and if it can be re-worked again. If it can, I have a quote
>for
>$1800-$2000 without dress up. I am even considering a "turn key" drop in.
>When
>the engine is out I plan to "tidy up" the firewall, inner fenders and
>wiring.
>My question is, "What would you do to your 400 if you were me?"
>
>Expectations - towing almost 5000 lbs. across country, want to use regular
>gas
>if possible, want torque and horsepower, want it to look cool and very trim
>and neat, and of course no break downs.
>
>Current specs - 400 cid CSB 2 bolt, edelbrock manifold and two barrel carb,
>electronic ignition, chevy dress up kit, no other upgrades. Currently have
>to
>use high octane when towing @ almost $2.00 per gal these days, ouch!. Have
>oil
>leak around fuel pump. Starts every time for the last 2 years and still has
>get up and go!
>
>Looking forward to hearing from you.
>
>Wayne - '47 Chevy 1 Ton Panel -
>http://www.stores.ebay.com/thepaneltruckmercantile
>oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
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