Preparing for the worst...

VortecWes · 09-20-2006, 07:39 AM

Well, my C1500 is pushing 210,000 miles and I want to be a step ahead of the game. This engine is still strong, but eventually something will go wrong with it, so I want to be prepared.

I would like to build up a 350 short block and have it ready if something goes wrong with my current Vortec...my question is this: Is the Vortec in my '97 a simple 350 block with vortec intake and heads or is there a major difference in the block?

What I'd want to do (if there is an internal snafu that happens to my current engine) is pull the motor, put the current heads and intake to the 350 short block that I'd have waiting and reinstall...but this seems way to simple. Am I missing something???

Thanks for your help...

2000CAYukon · 09-20-2006, 12:15 PM

Your 97 block is a Gen 1 block with a one piece rear main oil seal so any Gen 1 350 block with a one piece rear main will work.

I am not sure if the Vortec used a Roller Cam or not; however, the one piece Rear main blocks can be machined (drill and tap some bolt holes) to support a roller cam.

//2000CAYukon

VortecWes · 09-20-2006, 12:21 PM

How will I know a Gen I block from any other "run of the mill" 350 blocks?

2000CAYukon · 09-20-2006, 12:57 PM

Best bet is the casting number that will tell you what the block is. See http://www.mortec.com/castnum.htm

According to this site, you do have a roller cam.

//2000CAYukon

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