5SPD350
Newbie
I've been lurking this site, and others for a while just gathering info. I have a 92 C1500 350 TBI 5 speed, and the engine is getting a little tired. I'm mulling over ideas for a replacement. As much as I'd love to do a 5.3 or 6.0 LS swap, I really don't think I can get it done as cheap as staying TBI with my stock computer. I'd also prefer to stay standard as that is what's currently in the truck, an HM290/5LM60/NV3500 getrag. I'm really only looking to do a mild build up, but wondering which would be the better idea. Source a Vortec 5.7 Long block, or just put Vortec Heads on my 350 TBI 2 bolt. I'm considering basically this set up: My block with Vortec heads, a mild cam, carb intake, bored & ported 350 throttle body good for about 620CFM, injector spacer, salad bowl/hypercharger, wide open spacer, 350 injectors with the pressure increased, TBI chip and TPI fuel pump, Long tube headers, 2.5" pipe with an x pipe high flow cats, and magnaflow mufflers, and a 3 wire 02 sensor. Or, the vortec long block, with same mods. From what I understand, the Vortec 5.7 is full roller factory. And a 350 TBI only has roller provisions. I'm also clueless about the whole EGR issue. I will be able to pass inspection without emmissions so that's not a concern. I'm really unsure as to what cam to use. I keep hearing use an LT4 cam, but not sure if that's the hot cam or the stock LT4. It would be nice to have something lopey just for sound, but it's not neccesary. Also keep hearing about using 1.6 R.R. but something about limited valve lift on the Vortec heads without modifications. Also wondering if changing to a 6" rod would be any benefit vs. the 5.7" stock. Also unsure about the pistons, as to stay stock or go flattop. I want to be able to stay at 87 octane fuel. I also have a 1990 454 SS 14 bolt 9.5 5 lug posi drum to drum waiting to be installed. It currently has 3.73's but I will be replacing them in favor of 3.42's to make 1st gear not so useless, and to be able to catch 60mph in second. My main goals are to obviously have more power at least that of a stock 5.3L, keep costs to a minimum, run on 87 octane, turn at leat 5,500 RPM without it falling on it's face so as to be able to catch 60 in second with the 3.42 rear end ratio without sacrifcing too much low end torque,keep it manual, and keep it TBI. I'm not looking for a high horsepower monster, I'd be happy with anything in the 14's to be honest. This would be a street/strip style build. With most of it's time seen on the street/highway use, with an occasional trip to the track to make some passes. It may also do some light towing from time to time. Anyone with experience on a similar build up preferably running a 5 speed I would appreciate some input. Any opinions or suggestions are welcome though. Just don't tell me go LS, I really would love to as that would be my first choice but I don't think it's a reality at this point. Thanks in advance!