What small blocks will work with 4+3 C4?
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jul 2018
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
From: Richmond, VA
What small blocks will work with 4+3 C4?
So my motor spun a bearing the other day, a stock L98... and was wondering since I'm not looking to spend a ton of money, what used engine options do I have for my 1986 4+3? Will something like a 1996 used LT1 work? I don't wanna buy a new transmission and have no problem going with a carbed motor but got no clue whats involved with ditching fuel injection and going old school. Hopefully you guys know whats up on this one haha thanks in advance yall
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 3,451
Likes: 336
From: Greater Cincinnati Area.
I know the LT1 will be a problem because of the ignition and power accessories.. As far as other Chevy V8's, you mean out of other applications?
I dunno if it is dead accurate, but I have used this search engine to cross reference before and it has done a good job.
http://car-part.com/
It seems to indicate 86-89 vettes work. It even asks Iron or Aluminum head. (Be sure to filter by zip or it lists things across the whole country, you can then sort by distance and see if there is something near you.)
I have also looked up parts on sites like Autozone and Rockauto, then clicked "Application" and crossed that way. The best way is to call a salvage yard and they have an incredibly comprehensive exchange manual that breaks the entire car down and crosses it between models with almost perfect accuracy.. But those links may get you close!
I dunno if it is dead accurate, but I have used this search engine to cross reference before and it has done a good job.
http://car-part.com/
It seems to indicate 86-89 vettes work. It even asks Iron or Aluminum head. (Be sure to filter by zip or it lists things across the whole country, you can then sort by distance and see if there is something near you.)
I have also looked up parts on sites like Autozone and Rockauto, then clicked "Application" and crossed that way. The best way is to call a salvage yard and they have an incredibly comprehensive exchange manual that breaks the entire car down and crosses it between models with almost perfect accuracy.. But those links may get you close!
Last edited by confab; Aug 24, 2018 at 08:46 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 6,192
Likes: 750
From: near the thumb in the mitten
A used 86-95 short block would work. 86 first year of one piece rear seal, 85 and earlier requires different flywheel. If you transfer the TPI there are lots of options as long as it has factory cam. For simplicity I would keep the TPI unless you plan to " cam" it. Aftermarket cam tuning or carb. Carb requires a adjustable fuel pressure regulator to reduce fuel pressure. Fuel pump could run.oil switch.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jul 2018
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
From: Richmond, VA
Gotcha thanks guys and yes Kevova thats the type of info i was looking for, so the 4 speed stick in the 86 doesnt work with earlier blocks? wierd, so i guess the cheapest option is to get a 86-95 block and throw my TPI parts on it. Bottom end and crank are tore up on factory motor but all the heads, intake, TPI stuff etc is good. Wonder how hard it is to LS swap it or do a full LT1 swap out of like a 94-95 vette......
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,624
Likes: 431
From: Dale City VA
You can also get an L31 Vortec 5.7L short block out of any 1996-1999 1500 Truck or Suburban. They are also found in 1996-2002 Van. These engines are very plentiful in wrecking yards and on Craigslist. These would be the newest engines and likely best condition for replacement in your 86. The factory roller camshaft is very mild and would work well with the stock TPI. Your stock 86 heads will bolt right on.
The Vortec cyl heads that come on these engines are great and make good power but unfortunately won't bolt to your TPI lower intake (bolt pattern is different).
Will
The Vortec cyl heads that come on these engines are great and make good power but unfortunately won't bolt to your TPI lower intake (bolt pattern is different).
Will
Last edited by rklessdriver; Aug 28, 2018 at 09:17 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 2,616
Likes: 111
I have a steel FW custom made for a 2 piece rear main (85 on back SBC) for sale of you are interested. Have not posted it yet on FS section yet. It will go cheap. No miles on it.
This is if you go with an earlier block of course.
This is if you go with an earlier block of course.
Last edited by 856SPEED; Aug 28, 2018 at 11:07 AM.
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