replacing block in my 88 C4
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 258
Likes: 26
From: NY
replacing block in my 88 C4
I have a cracked block leaking coolant and need to replace it. The engine is built up- Cam, heads, etc. so I want to be able to switch all the goodies from my block.
Do I need to find a specific block to the 88 block or can I use other small block chevys? I have a SB from the mid 70's I could use, but want it to be able to fit in just like the original.
Do I need to find a specific block to the 88 block or can I use other small block chevys? I have a SB from the mid 70's I could use, but want it to be able to fit in just like the original.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 62,160
Likes: 1,733
From: Athens AL
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
C4 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
A 1-piece rear main and roller block would have everything you need basically.
Now there are kits to convert non-roller blocks over, but if you want everything to go like before, best to get the newer block.
Now there are kits to convert non-roller blocks over, but if you want everything to go like before, best to get the newer block.
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 1,764
Likes: 648
From: USA
And the block from the '70s will likely have a lefthand oil dipstick...the correct 1 piece rms block will have it on the righthand side, you'd also want the newer block for your oil pan to fit/work! Check any local machine shop, they should have what you need👍
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 258
Likes: 26
From: NY
Will do. Good idea.
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 1,764
Likes: 648
From: USA
Also, if you have them do the machine work, they would likely sell you the core block for cheap! Whoever does your cylinder work, make sure torque plates are used...these simulate cylinder heads bolted on during the machining process! They should also be able to tell how much they'll need to bore to clean it up, make sure this number will work with your pistons, if you're planning on reusing and just get some new rings...re-ring kit with all the bearings, new oil pump, brass soft/freeze plugs, etc! One last thing, make sure they take out all oil galley plugs in the beginning (during all hot tanking and machining steps) and that they all get reinstalled at the end!!! Good luck👍
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 258
Likes: 26
From: NY
Also, if you have them do the machine work, they would likely sell you the core block for cheap! Whoever does your cylinder work, make sure torque plates are used...these simulate cylinder heads bolted on during the machining process! They should also be able to tell how much they'll need to bore to clean it up, make sure this number will work with your pistons, if you're planning on reusing and just get some new rings...re-ring kit with all the bearings, new oil pump, brass soft/freeze plugs, etc! One last thing, make sure they take out all oil galley plugs in the beginning (during all hot tanking and machining steps) and that they all get reinstalled at the end!!! Good luck👍
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 2,876
Likes: 764
From: Sligo PA
The easiest thing to do is lookup what the closest self service salvage yard is to you. Most of these companies will list the VIN numbers for there vehicles that are on the yard. So I would look for a late 90's to 2001 Express van. Look at the vin. If the 8th digit is an "R" then this is a four bolt main 350 that will suit your needs. Vans like this are a little easier to pull motors from in a junk yard. Just pull the motor and the trans together. If you want buy the trans and sell it. That's the later generation 4L80e in 2wd. They sell for around $900 on eBay all day long
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 258
Likes: 26
From: NY
The easiest thing to do is lookup what the closest self service salvage yard is to you. Most of these companies will list the VIN numbers for there vehicles that are on the yard. So I would look for a late 90's to 2001 Express van. Look at the vin. If the 8th digit is an "R" then this is a four bolt main 350 that will suit your needs. Vans like this are a little easier to pull motors from in a junk yard. Just pull the motor and the trans together. If you want buy the trans and sell it. That's the later generation 4L80e in 2wd. They sell for around $900 on eBay all day long
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 3,500
Likes: 879
From: Saratoga Springs NY
2024 C4 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2022 C4 of the Year Finalist - Modified
Mercruiser still uses these blocks to this day. If i had one that wasnt freeze damaged id sell you one cheap.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 258
Likes: 26
From: NY
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 3,720
Likes: 556
From: Seattle Washington
My Machinist sold me a 880 Vortec 4 Bolt Block for $400 That had the standard sized Bores Honed, Ground for a 383 Crank, Hot Tanked washed and Cam Bearings installed. In other words he sold me his time and gave me the Block. No Junkyard needed.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 258
Likes: 26
From: NY
Starting my search today, I'll do machine shops first..... Thanks!