This thread started out as vortec thread. Early on, I said that the vortec was a truck, only, engine. So I'm not sure how, "The Gen I's (1955-1991) continued in production after the Gen II was introduced for trucks only." and "As far as I know, the Gen I production continued through 1991 and later for trucks only." ever got posted, since that IS the topic of discussion in the first place. When you speak of vortec, by definition, you are talking about trucks. Speaking of trucks, years of engine or block usage, and rarity, has anyone even, ever heard of a Gen II (LTx) truck? I haven't.

RACE ON!!!

 

I became interested in the Vortec (aka L31) SBC as a possible
replacement for an L98

There is a bit of information about configurations, casting numbers,
partial and short block part numbers and so on in this thread over
in C4 Tech.
.

 

Vortec engine kicks az!!! My 96 truck was turning 14.4 with just exahust, air filter, and programmer. Very solid engine to build from.

 

The L31 Vortec truck engine even went into the 2001-2002 Express/Sahara vans, and also in the Mexican pickups til 2002 I believe.
I'm using a 98 L31 engine with a Ramjet Intake in a 41 Chevy pickup now, and I'm using a harness/PCM # 12200411 from a 2002 Express Van.

 

1996 was the first year for the "350 Vortec" engine in the trucks. Prior to that they used the Non Roller cam TBI truck motors. These 350 or 5.7L Vortec motors were used in the Trucks through 2000. Now some people will disagree with me because the new LS style 4.8L and 5.3L and 6.0L trucks started in 1999 model year with the body style change. However there were a few "Classics" produced with the old body style through 2000. I have seen a couple 1999 and 2000 trucks that look just like my 1994 pick up but indeed they were titled as 99 and 2000 here in Missouri. So it is my understanding that Cheverolet either produced or had an over run of the old body style trucks that were sold as 99 and 2000 trucks. Now I am only talking about Pickups not any larger trucks. My understanding is that along with the fuel injection changes and vortec heads, also came the Roller Cam, please note that while the blocks were machined to accept the Roller Cam it is my understanding that 1996 was the first year for the trucks to take advantage of this machining. Also the vortecs that I have seen did not use a Y pipe like the older TBI trucks, and instead run two pipes into , two separate converters and finally into a gigantic Boat Anchor of a muffler. LOL any way, have fun fellas

 

Everything he just said. Including years of production to 2000.^

I've got one in my '96 and it rocks. Matches my friends 305 hp Nissan Titan, and my other friends Dodge RAM HEMI. Plus I get over 20 mpg highway. It's a great engine, IMO.

 

You fotgot to mention the amazing 1/4 mile time it ran, at altitude. BTW, RMR is done for the year.

RACE ON!!!

 

Yeah good point. Mid 16's at 4500' elevation!! Woo-hoo! Actaully, that's not bad for a X-cab, s-bed, 4x4 grocery getter.

Yeah, I know RMR is done. As usual, I don't know why. Weather is fine still....last MND's was sold out by 7:30 PM. I guess they just plain don't like making any money! What else could it be?? I wanted to run my car there before they shut down to get "splits" that I couldn't get from the Wendover track. Also maybe knock off another 10th with better track prep and not an up-hill start! lol.

-Tom

 

Next year! Maybe me, too.

RACE ON!!!

 

Many of the 86-up HD truck motors used flat tappet cams. Some of these blocks were machined for a roller cam retainer plate and lifter retainers. Others WERE NOT. So, be careful. Also, some were drilled for a fuel pump pushrod, others were not.

 

All vortecs are rollers. Mine is a 2 bolt, I assume thats standard. And mine had a plate over where the mechanical fuel pump would go, I also assume that is standard.