the 400s all went the way of the dirt track and the Do-Do. I sold my last 400 block about 10 or 15 years ago for about 3 times what I figured it was worth. There were no big block options for the early C-10, maybe you could get a big truck like a C-20 or bigger with a W motor. The big block is really no big deal, you set it in on the mounts and see what has to be juggled to make it work. I have stuffed a 396 or 2 in '63s and '64s. I don't recall it being brain surgery, you can figure it out if you ever get an engine to work with.
Okay, basically I just wanted to verify that if i went the route of the big block that I can drop it in and it would bolt up and be a simple swap. I can get a good running 327 for around the $500 dollar range from a friend, or a "running when pulled" 454 off craigslist for about $300. a 305 or 350 will both be a minimum of $300 or something near that anyways, so i've been trying to decide what the most fun build would be. I've never done an engine swap before, but i've helped pull an engine out of an 80's ranger. I can't take my truck out of commission for more than a weekend right now, but maybe in a months time or so I can make it work (this is the main reason why I've been trying to find an easy bolt-in swap). I do feel like the 454 would make a great engine for my use, and be a lot more interesting to me than the standard 350 V8 swap it seems every one of these trucks has now a days. So is your opinion that the 400 isn't worth the investment?
Essentially I just want a rock solid reliable engine where I can build it (not going to "supe it up" or anything too special) and it will provide long term use / power to haul around tools and materials for work. if it comes down to it I can drop a cheap 305 into it and make due until i can make the road trip to go get the 327. Sorry if i keep bouncing around, this is my first opportunity for a new build and as I'm sure you can tell, I'm quite excited to piece everything together.
The LE9 305 found in chevy trucks and vans from 82-86 Or the L69 305 HO used from 83-86 , either one is no slouch on the job and cheap. Not much glamor but the work. The 307 with the same as above 305 heads and cam change is dirt cheap and very respectable. The key is that is to get a good 307 short block. Don't bother with it if it needs machine work.
The Jalopy Journal
