CK5
Register an account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members.

Weird 350 engine

b454rat

1/2 ton status
 Premium
Joined
Jan 21, 2003
Posts
3,583
Reaction score
214
Location
Binghamton NY
I pulled the motor from my 96, had the fuel pressure regulator stick so putting out like 95lbs. After I pulled it got looking at it and it's a 350. But casting number shows TBI from 87-95, 2 or 4 bolt, roller or flat tappet. It does have flat tappet, mechanical fuel pump block off plate. This is in a 96, so it is a Vortec top end. I know the difference between the two. I did some checking last nite, and looks like the timing cover is the only real difference, but don't think they will interchange....
 
So motor has roller bosses but no roller. Mechanical fuel pump. Vortec 305 heads, least its clean inside. Still not sure what the deal is with it...
 
So someone swapped it?

I assume the suffix code/partial VIN doesn't match for the truck?
 
Yeah motor swapped at some point, but previous didn't tell me, nor did I think he knew. He had the heads done, all I know. I believe the heads match, since they are 96, but the block says 93. I didn't realize the timing covers were interchangeable. I thought the Vortec used a one off, not compatible with older engines, but I was wrong. Got the new motor in, just need to button things up, hopefully have it running by the weekend. Then if money permits, start with the SAS....
 
How does it run with the flat tappet cam?

I'm sure different specs from the Vortec roller, be interesting to see if that affects how it runs, if it's noticeable.
 
The new motor is a Vortec, but the old one was theTBI short block. It ran OK, but didn't seem to have too much power, but not a huge deal cause I though it was a 305. But with flat tappet cam, who knows compression, and sure the 305 heads didn't flow great, not really surprised it ran the way it did. Looking forward to get the newer Vortec 350 in there and going....
 
Top Bottom