I have a 86 Iroc w/a 305 TPI. I'm now wanting something with more power. I'm not trying to build a drag car since i do drive it on the street but its not my DD. I also want to keep it to a small block. I was wondering if i should get a block from a car/truck and build it. I'm on a limited budget w/college so i want to build it this summer and winter. All info will be very helpful.

 

Check out these. The small block v-8 engines can be ordered from your local GM dealer also. You can get this part number engine (12486041) and a Scoggin Dickey vortec TPI baseplate http://www.sdpc2000.com/catalog/4004...nder-Heads.htm and use your current TPI set up. http://www.sdpc2000.com/catalog/120/...te-Engines.htm
This is the motor I chose http://www.sdpc2000.com/catalog/1578...rip-Engine.htm

 

can't go wrong with a crate motor, very hard to beat the price as well

 

So would i have less money in a crate motor or one that i build from the ground up? I was thinking about getting a 350 block and building the bottom end and then using my top end. Any suggestions?

 

long block crate 350 with your intake, some bigger injectors and a new chip,

I'm sure you'd be more then happy

 

This is probably your cheapest approach without a major investment, however keep in mind that there are three different bolt patterns on the TPI intakes. The early iron head L98s are compatable with all of the non center-bolt heads. The 87 and later center-bolt intakes,(like yours), and the center-bolt aluminum head C4 intake.