6.0 or 383 Stroker in a 1984 Chevy (Short Bed)

[Noldo63]

I have an 1984 chevy short bed with a 350 with a 300 trany. I want to take the 350 out and put 6.0 either the LS2 or the LQ9 from a SS Chevy.

I have been told that the 6.0 engines cause a lot of problems and have been advised to go with a 350 and turn it into a 383 stroker. Im not sure if the 6.0 know engines cause any problems or not. Another problem is how do I make a 350 into a 383.

Im looking for any type of suggestions or ideas so I can make my decision. Anything will help. I know that it will probably be easier to put the 383 stroker instead of the 6.0 but which one is better. Which one gives out more horsepower. Thanks.

[MrPbody]

Loaded questions, to be sure...

LSx is an excellent engine design. LS2 is among the better ones. At 400 HP (stock), it propels the modern GTOs into the mid 13s. A little modifications and 11s are a "slam dunk".

The modern engine will require a "stand alone" computer system to run the fuel and ignition systems. It's all "available".

If your truck now has a 350 in it, the 383 "swap" will be much easier and less expensive. What is a "300" trans? Maybe a TH350? The only Hydramatic I know of with a "300" designation is the old 2-speed "Super Turbine 300" found in mid-'60s Buicks, Olds and Pontiacs. Chevy never used it, to my kinowledge. It was "gone" by '69. Do NOT confuse the ST-300 with PowerGlide. Two completely different "animals".

All that said, either engine is plenty capable of BIG power. We have examples of 383 making over 500 BHP with 93 octane and a flat-tappet hydraulic cam. Much more is available with a solid roller... LS2 has been known to power those GTOs deep into the 10s with a small "hit" of nitrous, making well over 500 HP, as well.

IMO, if you "like" modern stuff, LS2 is a great choice. If "old schiool" is more your "style", 383... 383 would be more "stealthy", as it LOOKS just like 350 (it IS, externally).

I would use TH400 behind anything over 450 HP. A well built TH200-4R is the better OD unit. TH700-R4s bolt up to the Chevy, but aren't as tough or as "clean" regarding shifts. We've used TH200-4R behind the big Pontiacs, which will "shell" a TH700-4R "toot sweet". Torque is the "killer of transmissions".

FWIW

Jim

[silicon212]

I fail to see why it's better. The new engines have their merits, the old engines have their merits and it's a matter of choice.

Personally, there are several technical improvements with the LSx over the old small block, not the least of which is powdered iron 'cracked' rods.

As for what MrPeabody said above, it is on the mark.

A '383' is a 350 block, bored .030 oversize, with a 400 stroke (3.75") either with a 400 crank that has had the mains ground down to fit the 350 block, or a special aftermarket purpose-made crank.