I was considering buying a GM crate engine..the:

12496968 GM Crate 350 HO Deluxe about $3,400.00
I want to drop this in a '68 RS. This car is more show car, and doesn't necessarily need race power however I do like to have fun with it smile.gif
My question with dropping a crate engine in, is what other things should I consider adding on with a new engine? A few people have said that its a good idea to get a new transmission with the engine and also to replace most of the other engine compartment fixtures such as the pulley system, plug wires, hoses, etc. Anyone have any ideas about this?
If I did get a new transmission (its a Hurst 4 speed now) what is a good selection for a transmission setup for this engine? Thanks in advance for answering some of these questions!

That motor comes with an auto flexplate, the flywheel is another $200 or so for the late model 1 piece rear main seal motor.

Also, it comes with a long water pump, and of course the 68 has the short version.

I like switching all the brackets and pulleys over to long style. Alternator moves to passenger side, uses shorter belt, no valve cover interference, sturdier alternator mounting, etc.

And it comes with plug wires, spark plugs, oil filter.

Or keep you're eyes on this:

http://cgi.aol.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2422625044&category=33615

Hopefully it will remain in you're range. They seem to get better the more you run them!

good luck
joe c

I bought the "base" 350HO and ran into no problems at all. Actually, when you buy the base model version it doesn't come with any flexplate or flywheel. I think that it comes out cheaper when you buy it bare and throw on the manifold, carb, distributor, water pump, etc. I, personally, am pleased with the performance of the motor. Once you throw on headers and other go-fast goodies the motor is more than enough for the car. I used original style pulleys and a short pump and the alternator (one wire) is still on the passenger side of the car. IMO, you can't go wrong with the motor although I think that the "deluxe" model is overpriced.

The Deluxe version comes with a large body HEI. You may have clearance problems with this distributor at the firewall. I opted for the standard 350 HO and purchased the accessories separately as well.

I also bougt the base model since I couldn't use the distributor or flexplate in my 69z28. I'm very happy with the motor. One tid bit is to get a dipstick and tube for a ZZ4. It cost under 20 bucks and fits perfectly with headers. Good luck in your choice.

i bought a base 350HO and added the 268xe w/springs......approaching 20,000 miles w/o any probs! i think the base is a better buy.....especially if ya have the carb, dist etc......

czar

I love my 350 ho Deluxe in my '68 RS. It drives great on the street. With a 750 vac. Holley, 3.73, and 11" slicks it runs 13.2 @ 103.25.

Mike

mitch,

geez....you're awsome...running a low 13! is that a 4-speed or auto(stall?)...any mods bedides the 350HO?

great for you....i only hope i could repeat what you run!!!!!

czar