Replacement Engine
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
Replacement Engine
I have a '79 Corvette and was considering replacing my current 350ci engine with a 350 HO Crate engine (330HP, $2900.00). My current 350 is stock and is burning oil, which is evident by the blue smoke coming from my exhaust pipes. I intend to eventually repair the stock engine and put it in another vehicle. Is the Crate engine a good idea (for the price) or is there a better solution? Thanks.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 2,545
Likes: 3
From: 406ci SB, AFR 180 Heads - 490 HP @5,600 RPM 529 lb-ft @ 4,100 RPM
Is your stock engine a L-48 or L-82. I rebuilt my L-82 to 400+ RWHP and happy I went that way. Crates are ok, but I wanted to keep the L-82, since I rebuilt it myself, the cost was about the same. If you go to a crate, I'd recommend a 383ci. 
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,305
Likes: 2
From: Lewisburg WV
thegazman
How many miles on your engine. The smoke is probably coming from worn valve guides. If your engine is low mileage, you can change the heads, cam, and intake and pick up a lot of HP for a lot less money.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 7,123
Likes: 433
From: Gladstone MO
C3 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
Blue smoke from the exhaust all the time is a sure sign the rings are going/gone. Pull that engine, wrap it up and stick it in the corner for a future rebuild if it's a number match. Get a crate 383 and drop in there and have fun. Or go with a 350. That will keep you driving and you can rebuild the stock engine at your leisure,
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,164
Likes: 1
From: Port Clinton Ohio
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13
I put a GMPP 330HP 350 in mine last winter. I've put about 1500 miles on it this summer. I've been very happy with it. It's definately got more punch than the old L-48. I like the idea of having a brand new engine too. Go for it. 
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 12,146
Likes: 2,038
From: Easton, PA
St. Jude Donor '10
David
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,164
Likes: 1
From: Port Clinton Ohio
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13
It is the base engine. I had to use a different flywheel/flexplate and I bought an Edelbrock Performer Endurashine intake. I was able to use all of the other parts from my L-48. I had just rebuilt the carb and distributor so I wanted to be able to use them.
Shop around a bit. I found Jegs.com had the best price. They have it right now for $2659.99.
Shop around a bit. I found Jegs.com had the best price. They have it right now for $2659.99.
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