Olds 350 to a SBC 350 worth it?

1977 CADILLAC SEVILLE
75,000 MILES • 5.7L • V8 • AUTOMATIC
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BUCK713
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  • 2 POSTS
I wanted to bring the car listed above back to life after sitting for 8 years. Should I reuse the original olds 350 block or make modifications to be able to put in a SBC 350?
Mar 5, 2023 at 7:10 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
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Hi,

That is a great question. Personally, the vehicle's value will likely be higher with the original engine. Are there any known issues that led to it being parked?

If anything, I would use the OEM engine. However, I don't know its condition or how deep you want to get it going again. It is really a piece of history and deserves to be saved if possible.

Let me know.

Joe
Mar 6, 2023 at 11:13 AM
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BUCK713
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Thank you for the input. I had the gut feeling of keeping it with a olds 350. There is a lot of corrosion and what not that makes me want to rip everything out and go through everything. I drained the oil, and a lot of water came out first. I need to get it on a stand and see where this project takes me.
Mar 11, 2023 at 5:36 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The idea that a lot of water came out with the oil is a concern. Was the vehicle outside with the hood open or anything that could have allowed water to get into it? Was there only water in the cooling system and was it exposed to freezing temps? Have you tried turning the crankshaft to make sure it isn't locked up?

Sorry for so many questions. I just don't want to see you go through a lot of trouble to find it can't be fixed.

Let me know.

Joe
Mar 11, 2023 at 11:25 AM
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