Build the 350 or go with 454?

[jakkedjimmy]

My 91 jimmy has a 350 tbi that is not the original motor in the truck. It really gives me no problems (other than the common burning oil on startup) and it has been reliable, but just like everyone else i am in the search for more power. i saw a 454 /th400 combo in the papaer a while back for 900 in running cond in the local paper. this got me thinking what would be better to do ...build the 350 up some or go for the 454. I do mostly trails and mud. not to many rocks here in MA. I am trying to stay low budget again just like everyone else. also i dont know weather to work with the TBI or junnk it in favor of a carb. any input and opinions would be great. thanks

 

[454k30]

if yours isnt giving you any trouble just stay with it. However you do like the mud and nothing beats that big block power.

 

[1985_K5_Silverado]

If you're on a budget, just beef up the 350 a little with a "computer-compatible" cam kit (and change those valve stem seals while you have the valve covers off - that will probably fix that oil smoke on startup thing).

 

[b454rat]

If your on a budget, then your really not gonna get too much power out of it. I would go with the 454. Carb it till you get the pieces to convert it to TBI. No replacement for displacement....

 

[slyguy_22]

Best budget build i ever did in my 89 k5! 400 small block bored 30 over. You can use ur heads and intake and tbi off your 350. great milage and tons of torque. i get 14mpg on the highway (36's 8" suspension lift)
This is a direct bolt in setup. very good power. i tow an 18ft searay to my cabin, bout 2.5hrs away. and i cruise bout 70-75 on the highway with no problems.

 

[jekbrown]

Add another t-case if you want more power at the wheels.

anything else that will double your HP will drain your pocketbook MUCH faster.

if you don't like the TBI system you have, you might consider one of the FI systems that uses some of the stock parts but upgrades your system to a MPI system. They aren't that expensive, but would be a good thing if you did eventually build up your 350 with some hot aftermarket parts. Factory TBI systems are pretty limited sometimes. Still, if its reliable, why get rid of it?!

j

 

[tiger9297]

I'm in the process of planning a build for my '90 K5. I looked at the 454 option but it was just going to cost too much. I'm instead going w/ a 383. That way everything just bolts up nice and clean. I would love to have a BB though.