hello :
i just purchased a solid 65 short step with the original 8cyl engine(283?) and floor shift trans. i have been told the motor has about 165k miles and was partially rebuilt about 40k ago.
i have also been told (by prior owner)that the carb is a rochester 2bbl which was notorious for being problematic.
being new to this hobby i am not familiar with the skill of using the choak. the other day for no reason the truck just wouldn't start in spite of a recent tuneup by prior owner.
my question --
i would like to use this as a practical mode of general around town transportation and reliability is very important to me. would it be worth it to replace the motor with a good basic 350 crate motor? what kind of motor would be a reliable choice? will the 350 be a direct fit? will a 350 crate bolt direct to the existing trans. or are modifications needed?
as the truck is so solid i do not mind investing up front in a good trouble free motor.
your advice is much appreciated.
thank you
