Need engine swap advice -1986 Monte Carlo Ls

[Speedy94c]

Also, the transmission is a 3 speed th-200c I believe. I live in PA, so my state does require emissions testing, and while ac is not necessary by law, I'd like to have it. The original v6 was efi from the factory, so I'm guessing at the very least I'd need a different fuel pump. Thank you for your help so far.

If you are looking for a daily driver, I would get a rebuilt 4.3 and go back with that. It will cost a lot less than changing over to a 350 and would be dependable.

 

[Andebe]

Speedy94c makes a logical point,but...and it a big one,(think Kardashian)if you ever wanted to go bigger,now is the time!

 

[pmoore4321]

I guess if you can use the complete accessory drive from the V6, I might consider it. I didn't know they were compatible. It's a lot of expense for 300 hp and going back in time from FI to carb.

Junkyards are littered with 4.8 or 5.3 Vortecs. You're fuel system is already there for the most part and you're going to have to redo the exhaust anyway.

 

[pmoore4321]

Very little gain? Going from a dead motor,to a new one,seems pretty significant to me. But hey,Im new here...😉

If it's a daily driver and the only thing wrong is a dead long block? I stand by my statement.

 

[L67ss]

I forgot to mention that. All of the accessories will bolt to a 350. I was originally thinking about transplanting a serpentine belt setup but after thinking about it, it would cost a lot more and would require new A/C lines, plus the accessories to fit the serpentine setup. Using the 4.3 accessories is the cheapest, easiest way and you can keep A/C without having to get custom lines made.

You could keep the fuel injection and get a TBI intake for the 350. I'm sure you would need a better tune in the ECM for that but it's an option.

Oddly a 350 TBI will run fine on a stock 4.3 TBI PCM tune

 

[L67ss]

Cost difference between going 350 or 4.3 is MAYBE $100. New 4.3s can be costly. As long as you get the right manifolds the only parts you HAVE to buy are the motor mounts(<$20)

 

[Anthony Nyz]

I agree that transmission will not last behind a 350. Why not look for a good used 350 with a 200 r4 package.

I would love that to be an option, but unfortunately I didn't budget for this. I'm gonna have to finance the majority of the build. And my options are more limited because I'm tied to a supplier that has financing options. Out of curiosity, what should I expect to pay for that used engine and trans combo?

 

[L67ss]

Bout $500 max for the combo used

 

[Anthony Nyz]

Cost difference between going 350 or 4.3 is MAYBE $100. New 4.3s can be costly. As long as you get the right manifolds the only parts you HAVE to buy are the motor mounts(<$20)

Ok, that being said do you think the 350 is the correct choice for what I'm looking for? Really looking for consistent everyday driving as opposed to power and speed.

 

[Anthony Nyz]

I guess if you can use the complete accessory drive from the V6, I might consider it. I didn't know they were compatible. It's a lot of expense for 300 hp and going back in time from FI to carb.

Junkyards are littered with 4.8 or 5.3 Vortecs. You're fuel system is already there for the most part and you're going to have to redo the exhaust anyway.

I have seen that engine pop up on CL and ebay in my search for an engine. Would that fit my trans though? Trying to stay away from adapter plates if at all possible.