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So it's worse than I thought

EIB8400

EIB8400

1/2 ton status
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Delaware, Ohio
So my k5 has had a what I thought was a blown head gasket for the last 4 years. I finally decided to pull it apart and put new gaskets and some new fenders and inner fenders.
I saw a small spot where the gasket could be leaking and a messed up spark plug in that cylinder.
IMAG0364.jpg

Then I checked the cylinders and found this in the left rear cylinder.
IMAG0365.jpg

I figured I would just put new gaskets in it and run it till I could afford a new motor until I Started cleaning the heads.
IMAG0363.jpg

Now I'm searching for a motor.:doah:

IMAG0364.jpg

IMAG0365.jpg

IMAG0363.jpg
 
yep, reason I no longer have a 350 :( Except mine was driver side rear. I would have driven it into the ground if it wasn't compressing my entire cooling system, possibly ruining my new radiator, pump, and hoses :(
 
Yah ouch. Craigslist dude. Find one you can hear run and pick up cheap. Or if you really love your rig.... Crate motor, LS, or an already built motor someone didnt have funds to finish in a rig.
 
I've got a couple of options.
1. For $300 I can get a running 400 sbc from a good friend out of a truck he just got. Not sure how fresh it is.
2. For about $900 I can get a completely rebuilt 350 or 400 from an engine shop that I have previous experience with.
3. Jegs has gm crate motors starting at $1499 with a 3 year warranty.
Option 3 is what I would like to do. #1 might be what my wallet allows.
 
I like my 400 sbc. But mines new... So without knowing how fresh or old it is..... :dunno:
 
Option 2 (400) is your best bet I would imagine. Just make sure the radiator is up to snuff, and break it in with good oil using a good break in technique and your golden. Remember, there is no replacement for displacement, no sense in doing a 350 if you can get the 400 for the same price.
 
My first car was a 78 k5 with a 400 and that's what I would like to get again.

I thought about finding some used heads, but I don't really want to pull it apart again and spend money on this motor.
 
EIB8400 said:
My first car was a 78 k5 with a 400 and that's what I would like to get again.

I thought about finding some used heads, but I don't really want to pull it apart again and spend money on this motor.
Click to expand...



400s are sweet in my book.
 
Deuling said:
That cylinder wall looks focked
Click to expand...

agreed

EIB8400 said:
My first car was a 78 k5 with a 400 and that's what I would like to get again.

I thought about finding some used heads, but I don't really want to pull it apart again and spend money on this motor.
Click to expand...

sounds like Door # 1 is your best and cheapest good option
Have you heard the 400 run?
 
Or, take that option one, and put in new bearings and rings. Then you get option 2 for option 1s price. Its not to bad, just make sure you check clearances real good, and use an old dizzy to prelube it, then run it.
 
if you did option #3 the hidden cost is,,,,, the warranty is void if you dont have reciepts for a new or rebuilt radiator and new water pump at time of install. theyll ask "if" you ever need warranty work. SOL if you dont have them
 
i put the $1499 one from jegs in my kids k5. read that in the warranty pamphlet they send with it. luckily I had bought them things anyway:waytogo:
 
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