1973 needs new engine.
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
1973 needs new engine.
I have a 1973 that needs a new engine. The original is long gone due to some shady mechanic. My choices are now between buying a 350 crate or rebuilding and converting (to carb) a 350 vortec I have in the garage. Unless there are some options i dont know about. Any suggestions?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,812
Likes: 2,029
From: eastern NC
I have a 1973 that needs a new engine. The original is long gone due to some shady mechanic. My choices are now between buying a 350 crate or rebuilding and converting (to carb) a 350 vortec I have in the garage. Unless there are some options i dont know about. Any suggestions?
Blake, where do you live? Local shop nearby has a 350 from a '73 that the original owner swapped out for a crate engine. He was doing a frame off to repair some birdcage damage and just wanted to go with a crate engine at the time rather than rebuild the original. I believe it was an L-48.
Good luck... GUSTO
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Im in Louisiana.
I had not though about trying to track down a 73. I figured they would be pricey and with something new i would be done with it. There are plenty of other things i need to do with the vehicle. But it is an option.
Any clue what it would cost? (ha it is always about money!).
Mostly just a cruise.
Im not looking to drag it. I do not thing I want to go big block.
Also i have a holly street (maybe a 570) avenger for crate or rebuild.
I had not though about trying to track down a 73. I figured they would be pricey and with something new i would be done with it. There are plenty of other things i need to do with the vehicle. But it is an option.
Any clue what it would cost? (ha it is always about money!).
Mostly just a cruise.
Im not looking to drag it. I do not thing I want to go big block.
Also i have a holly street (maybe a 570) avenger for crate or rebuild.
Last edited by Blake Hernandez; Apr 7, 2013 at 11:31 PM.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,812
Likes: 2,029
From: eastern NC
Im in Louisiana.
I had not though about trying to track down a 73. I figured they would be pricey and with something new i would be done with it. There are plenty of other things i need to do with the vehicle. But it is an option.
Any clue what it would cost? (ha it is always about money!).
I had not though about trying to track down a 73. I figured they would be pricey and with something new i would be done with it. There are plenty of other things i need to do with the vehicle. But it is an option.
Any clue what it would cost? (ha it is always about money!).
This may not be practical for you, but if you are interested, I can put you in contact with him and you can negotiate as you see fit.
Good luck... GUSTO
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,889
Likes: 23
From: Kansas
The Vortex is the way to go, unless you want original. Be careful about who you pick for a rebuild. There are some good ones & some bad ones. A new one from G. M. was my choice, just two blocks away from my house. Excellent Warranty. There are some national engine re builders that do a great job, & have a great warranty also. When I added shipping it threw them out of the loop. Good luck to you. Gene
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 980
Likes: 202
From: West Hartford CT
I have a 73 thats' all original and sometimes I wish I had one that wasn't so nice. That way I could stick a modern crate motor in it and chrome it out. Then go screaming around and not worry about breaking something! Have fun with it! Your cheapest option is probably the Vortex, but can it get you 400 hp? I might go with a LS5 crate motor, old school style with modern day technology.