Chevy 350 small block engine

Types of Chevy 350 small block engines

The Chevy 350 small block engine was introduced in 1955 by the Chevrolet division of General Motors. This V8 engine became popular because of its versatility and durability. Car manufacturers used it for powering cars, trucks, and boats. As at 2021, the Chevy 350 small block engine was still in use, with over 100 million engines produced. Different car manufacturers used the engine in their vehicles. The engine has several variations, which are categorized based on two main factors: the year of production and the configuration of the cylinder heads. Some of the most common types of the Chevy 350 small-block engine are as follows.

• Chevy 350 L48 Engine:

• The L48 was the standard small-block 350 engine for most Chevy cars. The engine produced about 250 hp and was used in cars like the Corvette, Camaro, and Chevelle.

• Chevy 350 L65 Engine:

• The L65 engine was mainly used in trucks. The engine was less powerful than the L48 engine, producing only about 170 hp.

• Chevy 350 HO Engine:

• The 350 HO engine was introduced in 1967. It was a high-output engine that produced up to 300 hp. The engine was mainly used in performance-oriented vehicles.

• Chevy 350 L82 Engine:

• The L82 engine was introduced in 1975. It was a high-output engine, especially for that time, producing about 205 hp. The engine was used in vehicles like the Corvette and Camaro.

• Chevy 350 L31 Engine:

• The L31 engine was introduced in 1996. The engine was the first small block 350 to use fuel injection. It produced about 290 hp and was used in trucks and SUVs.

• Chevy 350 Generation II Engine:

• The Generation II engine was introduced in 1987. It was a modernized version of the small-block 350. The engine had a roller camshaft and was more fuel-efficient than the earlier versions.

Specifications and maintenance of the Chevy 350 small block engine

• Routine oil changes

  Maintaining the recommended oil change interval is essential for Chevy 350 engine maintenance. Fresh oil lubricates internal parts and reduces friction. It also traps contaminants for removal. High-quality oil protects components from wear and helps the engine perform optimally. Low oil levels or dirty oil lead to damage over time. Stick to the suggested mileage or time period for oil changes. This ensures continual protection. Monitor the oil level between changes. Add oil as needed to stay within the operating range. Avoid overfilling or running with low oil. Too much can cause foaming, while too little compromises lubrication.

• Cooling system care

  The cooling system requires attention to prevent overheating issues with the small block Chevy engine. Antifreeze protects against freezing and boiling extremes. It also inhibits rust buildup in the radiator and engine. Flush the cooling system periodically to remove contaminants. A flush exchange thoroughly cleans all passages. Dispose of the old coolant per local regulations. Inspect hoses regularly for cracks or bulges. Replace worn hoses before they fail. Hoses under pressure can burst, leading to leaks. Monitor the temperature gauge while driving. A high reading may indicate a problem.

• Air intake maintenance

  The air intake is vital for delivering proper airflow to the engine. Dirty air can restrict flow and harm performance. Remove the air filter periodically to check for dirt. A clogged filter needs replacement. Filters with excess dirt should be changed, even if within the mileage range. Excess contaminants can allow particles to damage engine components. Clean the air intake tubes and throttle body. Deposits build up gradually and affect airflow. A cleaning removes any obstructions.

• Regular spark plug inspection

  Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture for combustion. Worn plugs cause misfires, reducing efficiency. Inspect plugs regularly for signs of wear or damage. Issues include cracks, corrosion, or excessive gap spacing. Replace plugs that do not meet specifications. Stick to the recommended plug type and interval.

• Fuel system health

  The fuel system delivers gasoline to the engine. Problems can affect performance. Monitor fuel pressure with a gauge. Low pressure may indicate a faulty pump or clogged filter. Replace the fuel filter at regular intervals per the maintenance schedule. A blocked filter cannot trap contaminants.

How to Choose a Chewy 350 Small Block Engine

When sourcing a chevy 350 small block engine, here are some factors to consider:

• Business Needs

  Consider the purpose of the engine. For heavy-duty tasks, a more powerful setup might be needed, while for regular commuting, a standard version would suffice.

• Budget

  Set a budget considering the initial cost, fuel efficiency, maintenance, and potential repair costs. Some versions of the engine might be pricier than others, and modifications can add to the expense.

• Supplier Reputation

  Chevy 350 engines are sourced from suppliers with a good reputation. Reading reviews and asking for references can help find reliable suppliers.

• Warranty and Support

  Consider the warranty and customer support offered by the suppliers. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, and reliable customer support can assist with any issues that arise.

• Future Resale Value

  Consider the engine's future resale value. Popular engines are likely to retain their value better than rare or specialized versions.

How to diy and replace chevy 350 small block engines

The Chevy 350 small block is one of the most known engines to work on or replace. As a well-known engine, it is used in numerous vehicles, which means that car mechanics and retailers should know how to replace it. Replacing a Chevy 350 small block engine is a straightforward task when armed with the right tools and knowledge. Follow the steps to achieve a successful replacement:

Tools Needed:

• Socket and ratchet set
• Wrench set
• Screwdrivers
• Torque wrench
• Jack and jack stands
• Lifting equipment (e.g., engine hoist)
• New engine gaskets
• Coolant
• Oil
• New engine mounts (optional)

Step-by-step Guide:

• Preparation: Disconnect the battery. Drain the coolant and oil. Then, remove any components obstructing the engine's removal, such as the air intake, exhaust manifold, and accessories like the alternator and power steering pump.
• Lift the Vehicle: Use a jack and jack stands to lift the vehicle. This provides ample working space underneath the engine.
• Support the Transmission: Use a transmission jack to support the transmission. This step is necessary when the engine and transmission are connected through a common bell housing.
• Disconnect the Transmission: Locate the bolts connecting the transmission to the engine and remove them using a socket and ratchet set. A wrench may be required to access some bolts in tighter spaces. Once loose, use a screwdriver to pry the engine apart from the transmission.
• Disconnect the Wiring Harness: Locate and disconnect the wiring harness connected to the engine. Take photos or make note of the connections to ensure correct reassembly.
• Remove the Engine: Follow the instructions of the lifting equipment and attach it to the engine. Carefully lift the engine out of the vehicle using the hoist.
• Install the New Engine: Place the new engine on a workbench and install new gaskets. Then, attach the lifting equipment and lower the new engine into the vehicle. Follow the reverse process to install the engine. Reconnect the wiring harness, transmission, and other disconnected components. Fill the engine with new oil and coolant.
• Final Checks: Before starting the engine, double-check all connections, ensure no tools or loose parts are left in the engine bay, and verify proper fluid levels.
• Start the Engine: Once all checks are complete, start the engine and let it idle. Monitor for any leaks or unusual noises.

Q and A

Q1: How much horsepower does the Chevy 350 small block have?

A1: The original 350 hp ranged from 145 to 370. The exact horsepower depends on the model and the year of release.

Q2: Why is it called a small block 350?

A2: The term ""small block"" refers to the engine's physical size. It is smaller than the ""big block"" Chevy engines. ""Big block"" engines are larger and produce more power than the small-block engines.

Q3: What is the displacement of the Chevy 350 small block?

A3: The displacement of the Chevy 350 small block is 350 cubic inches, which is approximately 5.7 liters.

Q4: Can the Chevy 350 small block be turbocharged?

A4: Yes, the Chevy 350 small block can be turbocharged. Many car enthusiasts add a turbo to the engine and increase its horsepower. With a turbo, the 350 small block engine can produce 600 to 1,000 horsepower.