BamaFan55

81c3

Physically it will fit... but I would guess the computer will be different. Not sure if the computer will swap over.... but I doubt it.

RtStuf

Where is "around here"?

Whaleman

I do not believe it would be cheaper wherever you are. Dan

Whaleman

Look on Craigslist. I just looked and a bunch of mechanics post they will come to you and do the work.

belairbrian

Considering it's a smaller displacement engine (305 ci) I can't see how the computer would work. So that means a computer swap. That in turn means no support for the instrument cluster.

Tom400CFI

While 305 comes with smaller injectors and I think the 305 would run "fine" with the 'Vette ECM, why down grade? No way in hell would I make that swap. I'd fix the problem on the 350...then run the wee out of it.

Space387

Due to the considerable loss in power and torque combined with the required ecm change/ tuning You would be better off with actually doing a head gasket replacement. Considering how open the engine bay is and the simplicity of a gen 1 small block you could do this in a day or two, not counting time of having your heads in the shop getting milled. For me to do it here in florida would run me as follows:

Head milling - $250 for the pair
Top end gasket set - $76
Head Bolts - $16
Mobile1 5Qt - $23
Oil filter of choice - $7
Coolant 50% - $48 ( 3 gal)
Total - $420 plus local tax
And your choice of service manual or youtube video.

The hardest part of this whole project will be setting valve lash and ensuring the distributor is placed in the right location.

BlowerWorks

OMG Bama !!! Follow Spaces's lead and do NOT be stupid & dumb cheap !!!!!!! greg

Space387

Bama where are you located? If your close enough I will be more than happy to help, or hell if you drop it with me I'll do the work for you.

Purple92

When I read your post - I am reminded of the expression "There is No Replacement for Displacement."

I'd strongly recommend just repairing the 5.7 L motor you already have !!!

You should be able to pull both heads in less than 8 hours - and reinstall will take about the same amount of time.... I've pulled more than one motor out of a C4 - and I don't believe that you can do the job as quickly as you can pull the cylinder heads.

And BTW - while you have the heads out - consider doing a valve job - you may very well find that there are more than a couple of valve guides that are worn more than they should be... Might as well deal with it while you're there.....

WVZR-1

There's way more issues '88 to '90 than have been mentioned here already. There's no way for anyone other than a very experienced C4 guy to pull this off.

It has to be way more realistic to repair what you've got unless "There's more to the story" that hasn't been passed on.

Space387

Before we turn this into a "Your wrong and here's why" thread and run him off lets get as much as we can from him.

Reason I could think of that it may be better to use the 305 is if the L98 has more potential damage than just a leaking head gasket, ie coolant in the oil, metal shavings in the oil. Something of this nature would lend me to think replace over rebuild. Also he my have a running 305 that is in good working order with reasonable miles. If this is the case the engine would be free he would just do well with a tune and all should work just fine. The trade off for going smaller is the lowered power means it will work harder leading to more fuel use and possibly an early demise to the engine.

Unfortunately we need to hear more from the OP to provide a grounded suggestion not a diehard "It has to be this way because I said so."

billschroeder5842

I tend to agree. Fix what you know will fit. Dropping in block "X" opens up tons of variables.

BamaFan55

I live Moulton ,Alabama. It's about 80 miles north of Birmingham and 40miles west of Huntsville.

Joe C

w/ the above - fix what you have. blown head gaskets are somewhat of a common problem on the aluminum head L98, especially the right and left rear cylinders. if you're handy with the wrench, the repair, while somewhat of a PITA, it's still a SBC and a relatively doable fix. I can't believe it's cheaper to swap out the engine than replace head gaskets. besides, with swapping the engine, now you're injecting a whole new set of issues in the mix. not saying it can't be done - just my 2-cents.

BamaFan55

I'm considering selling this car before I spend any more money on it. What is it worth? It has 102,000 miles. Trans was rebuilt in September ( have receipt). I have the original window sticker and floor mats. It's dark smoke gray. Good tires, new mufflers.

ChumpVette

Non running, be lucky to get 3k.

Charcoal Mettalic is a rare color, but not enough to bring big value.

81c3

Snap a few pics and post em up.... Is the paint nice enough not to need redoing? Interior look nice?