I’m bored at work and thinking about the future challenge drivetrains I have kicking around my garage and what I should use.
Option 1 is a free GM series 2 3.8L missing the supercharger and injectors. I could find and replace those parts with junkyard items or get a NA intake and add a turbo or 2. Engine might need gaskets, rings and bearings since it had a knock and has been sitting. Not sure till I crack it open and see what I can cheap out on.
Option 2 is a 1995 caprice 5.7L LT1 I picked up for $100 and have yet to sell anything off of it. I’m thinking just clean it up and drop it in with maybe some N2O for the drags. I also have a 1993 Camaro harness and computer.
Option 3 is a 1996 Suburban 454 block I picked up for free (ok, $1.30 if you count the gas to go get it). I also have a set of rods and a crank out of a marine 454 that cracked but should fit my current block. Only issue is the crank has been balanced and has some weight welded in professionally. I’m not sure how is been balanced (internal or external) but it did have this heavy flywheel looking thing on the back. That thing had marks in it like it was balance at the factory. If the balance is internal then I should be all set and can just throw a rebuild kit with a cam at the engine for big blocky challenge fun.
Option 4 is a free 350 long block I have kicking around. It was rebuilt once but I don’t know the history on it or if it’s even useable. Heads have been off for over 10 years and the bores have some rust. Not to excited about this option because it’s really common.
Now I’d look for a cheap LS motor but I already have these engines taking up space in my garage. These would be going in a 69 Camaro behind a 200-R4 transmission. What looks like the best most interesting option? I know there are pros and cons behind each choice. Just wanted to see what you guys thought.
