I am about ready to order my new engine for my 86 El Camino. I will probably order this:
GM Goodwrench - 10067353 - New Chevy 350 CID, 5.7L , V8 - Universal Crate Engine, Factory Replacement for 71-85 GM Cars & Trucks
It is the older style 350 with a two piece main seal, but my intake will bolt right up. I will probably need a new flex plate but that is less than 70 bucks. If I go with a later model engine like this one:
GM Goodwrench - 12518298 - NEW GM 1987 - 1995 5.0L, 305 CID, 8 Cylinder Engine
my intake will not fit and I would need a different intake. The amazing this is I could buy a 1986 engine but is costs $750 more!
Now I really need to figure out my exhaust. The current stock exhaust manifolds are the exact same ones that were on the 350 from what I can find from the part numbers. If I stick with my current manifolds the old exhaust will bolt up and I am done. I can do everything for under 2 grand.
If I change to headers I will need to redo the exhaust and likely go with a dual exhaust. That will cost some bucks. I hate the sound of headers and prefer the quiet of manifolds. The ram head manifolds I have found all point down right in the middle and would not fit my application.
I need to find some muffler shop that has been in business for ages and has a pile of old ram head manifolds in the back from guys switching to headers.
