I need advice. Im looking for a Small Block Chevy Crate Engine (yes i know crate engines are kinda frowned upon here) But im looking for a ready to go kind of SBC that i can put a Tri Carb Stromberg set up on when i get it. Im confused by all the different ones on the market, any advice on the best one for my needs?
Look for something in the 300-350 HP range unless you are putting it into a heavy car then up your ponies to about the 380 - 400 HP range.
Buy one from a GM dealership parts department. It's all brand new, not rebuilt and it comes with a warranty that's honored at any GM dealership service department.
I'm not a crate mtr guy but have helped install several and they run fine and no hassles, The ZZ motors seem to run real well especially with the 425 HP cam and kit.. Helped put one in a 40 cpe for a friend and it ran pretty strong.
I would go with Rochester 2G carbs instead of the Strombergs. Check with Summitt and Jegs they have sales on crate engines and include free shipping at times.
I can't say I'd bother with a 195hp 350, but that's just me. I wouldn't start at anything less than 300hp myself.
I wouldn't either but provided that example of what's available at that price for comparison purposes.
I had a 260 HP Goodwrench 350 in my old O/T astro van [Rocky Goodtime van TM] and it filled it's intended purpose with a 600 Holley and headers. Was trouble free. I think they're around 1700 bucks new at the chevy dealer.
If you want to use an older tri-power intake-check out what heads are used on the crate motor. The newer "Vortec" heads have vertical intake manifold bolts which will not work with older manifolds . I know the 330 HP motor has the newer heads -I suspect the lower HP do not. Consult a perf parts catalog or a dealer
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