How long can an engine sit before rusting or seals drying up and needing to be rebuilt? I just saw this ad on craigslist. He states that the cylinders show no rust. I'm looking for a drop in engine to get me through till I can build the engine I really want.

"350 from a 1988 gmc 3500 series stake body, truck was a 5 speed, and had 90,000 miles on it. truck was totaled about 3 years ago. motor had no oil leaks and ran great. i kept the motor for intensions of droping it in a sports car but that never happend, its just been sitting on a engine stand taking up space. this is a 4 bolt main motor , motor is complete minus the intake and distributor, heads are off and will need new head gaskets installed and new head bolts since they are considerd a streach bolt. cylinders are in great shape no rust is present . has always been coverd and kept clean. with some minor tlc this will make a great replacement motor for your chevy or gmc truck or an up grade for your camaro or firebird, or just ues the block and build a great race car motor. this is an 010 block for all you race car guys that want these blocks for your race car"

 

If he has pics of the walls not having surface rust I'd say its fine.

You might need to put valve cover gaskets on it b/c they might start leaking after a while, but sounds like it may be a good temporary motor.