When it comes to upgrading or replacing an engine, the 350 / 5.7 Chevy engine is a popular choice among car enthusiasts. The 350 engine has a long history of performance and reliability, making it a versatile option for a variety of vehicles. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to choose the right turn-key engine for your specific needs. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best 350 5.7 small block engines available in the market, and provide a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're building a hot rod, a street machine, or a race car, this guide will help you find the perfect turn-key engine for your project.
History Of the Chevy 350 Crate Engines
The Chevy 350 crate engine is one of the most popular and enduring engines in the automotive industry. Originally introduced in 1967, it quickly gained a reputation for being a reliable and powerful small-block V8 engine. Over the years, the engine has gone through several revisions and improvements, but its basic design has remained largely the same. In the 1980s, Chevrolet began offering the 350 engine as a crate engine, which made it easily accessible to the automotive aftermarket. Today, there are a variety of Chevy 350 crate engines available, ranging from stock engines to high-performance versions that can produce up to 500+ horsepower. These crate engines have become a popular choice for hot rod builders, race car drivers, and anyone looking to upgrade their vehicle's engine with a reliable and powerful option.
Specs For Chevy 350 5.7 Small Block Engines
The Chevy 350 small block engine is a popular choice among car enthusiasts and has been used in a variety of vehicles for over 50 years. The small block Chevy engine is equipped with eight cylinders arranged in a V-configuration. The 350 engine block is made of cast iron and has a bore and stroke of 4.00 inches by 3.48 inches, respectively. The compression ratio of the engine varies depending on the specific model and can range anywhere from 8.0:1 to 10.25:1. The horsepower output of a stock 350 engine also varies depending on the specific model, but can range from 145 to 370 horsepower. The engine was available with a range of features, including fuel injection, two or four-barrel carburetor, solid, hydraulic, or hydraulic roller cam, many different cylinder head configurations, among other components. Overall, the Chevy 5.7 liter small block engine is a versatile and powerful option that has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice among car enthusiasts today.
Engine Specifications For Chevy 350 engines:
1967-1980 / RPO L48 / VIN K / 165-195 HP / 380 TQ / 8.25:1 - 10.5:1 compression
1969-1970 / RPO L46 / 350 HP / 380 TQ / 11.0:1 compression
1969-1976 / RPO L65 / 145 HP / 220 TQ / 8.5:1 compression
1969-1988 / RPO LM1 / VIN L / 155-175 HP / 250-304 TQ / 8.2:1-9.0:1 compression
1970-1972 / RPO LT1 / 250 -370 HP / 270 - 300 TQ / 9.1:1 compression
1970-1974 / RPO ZQ3 / 190-300 HP / 270 TQ / 8.5:1 - 10.25:! compression
1970-1986 / RPO LS9 / VIN L / 165 HP / 275 TQ / 8.2:1 compression
1973-1980 / RPO L82 / 205-250 HP / 255-285 TQ / 9.0:1 compression
1981-1981 / RPO L81 / 190 HP / 280 TQ / 8.2:1 compression
1981-1986 / RPO LT9 / VIN M / 160 HP / 250 TQ / 8.3:1 compression
1982-1984 / RPO L83 / 200-205 HP / 285-290 TQ / 9.0:1 compression
1985-1992 / RPO L98 / VIN 8 / 225-250 HP / 330-345 TQ / 9.5:1-10.0:1 compression
1988-1996 / RPO L05 / VIN K / 210 HP / 300 TQ / 9.3:1 compression
1992-1997 / RPO LT1 / VIN P / 260-305 HP / 325-340 TQ / 10.4:1 compression
1996-2002 / RPO L31 / VIN R / 255-350 HP / 330-350 TQ / 9.4:1 compression
Most Popular Chevy 350 Turn-Key Crate Engines
350 5.7 Small Block Engines Replacements Parts for Easy Rebuild
One of the advantages of using a Chevy 350 5.7 small block engine is that replacement parts are readily available, making it easy to rebuild the engine. Many of the components, such as pistons, rings, bearings, and gaskets, are standard parts that can be found at most auto parts stores. In addition, many aftermarket companies offer high-performance parts that can improve the engine's performance and reliability. These parts include camshafts, cylinder heads, intake manifolds, and exhaust systems, among others. When rebuilding a Chevy 350 engine, it's important to use quality replacement parts and to follow the manufacturer's specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity. With the availability of replacement parts and the vast array of aftermarket options, rebuilding a Chevy 350 5.7 small block engine can be a relatively straightforward process for experienced mechanics and automotive enthusiasts alike.
Chevy 350 Crate Engine Manufacturers
As the 5.7 liter Chevy engine is one of the most popular options in the aftermarket for hot rodders, racers, and performance enthusiasts, there is a large selection to choose from. Below are some of the most popular manufacturers of the Chevy small block 5.7 engine.
Chevrolet Performance
Directly from the manufacturer, a 350 small block Chevy engine, as well as other sizes, are available from Chevrolet Performance. Built with the same quality in components and assembly as the originals, these engines are also covered by a GM warranty, which varies in time and mileage depending on the engine and application.
Edelbrock
Edelbrock offers a wide selection of 100% brand-new (no rebuilt or reconditioned components), fully assembled performance 350 Chevy crate engines. These engines are built using the best quality parts from the block on up. Horsepower and torque numbers are verified by Edelbrock engineers using state-of-the-art equipment as well.
Blueprint Engines
BluePrint Engines is an excellent option for aftermarket, high-performance, and drop-in engines. Their numerous Chevrolet 350 options offer any custom builder, hot rodder, or kit car builder an engine that has been fully dyno-tested, passed vigorous inspections, and is ready to power up your project. BluePrint crate engines come in several levels of dress from a short block all the way to complete drop-in with all the components that will be needed to start and run the engine the day it’s installed.
ATK Engines
One of the largest engine builders in the aftermarket industry, ATK's HP engine line of assembled performance 350 small block crate engine options are designed for those that are wanting to drop an engine into their project and fire it up. These engines also included a 24-month limited warranty for peace-of-mind.
JEGS Engines
Offering a large number of long block 5.7 engine options, JEGS Performance Engines provides a high-quality powerplant that will not bust your budget. Available in different configurations, including the popular 5.7 Chevy Vortec crate engine, these affordable options also include either a 24 or 36 month / unlimited mileage warranty.
