The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop '69 truck motor

Hey all. I've got a '69 1/2 ton with a 250 I-6 in it that I'm getting ready to restore. I've figured out just about everything I want to do to the truck, except for the engine. I've been kicking around several different ideas, and just can't decide if I want to keep the 6, overhaul and modify it, or scrap it and swap in a V-8. If I keep the 250, I plan to modify it into a 292 and put a different cam in it, along with a set of headers and a 4bl intake manifold. If I go the V-8 route, I'll most likely build a 383 for the truck. The thought of converting to diesel has also crossed my mind.

So, what I'm asking is what do you think would be the best route to take? Any input will be greatly appreciated.

The 250 is a low deck engine and you cannot "convert" it to a 292 as you can't get enough stroke out of the block. A 292 is a different block altogether.

Sounds like you have a lot of options you are thinking about . . . time to really think long and hard about what you want when you are done. If the engine runs now - work on other stuff till you have it figured out. 69's came with a long list of engine options including a couple of different small blocks and at least a 396 big block along with the L6 options. I had a 69 w/T400 stock rated at 275HP and it scooted pretty good and got about 11mpg with my foot in it all the time.

or hotrod the 6, plenty of bits avail, and have something different. (although not to bolters) Plenty of V8 trucks around...

Your final decision should be based on what matters most to you - cheapest cost, maximum power or being different. With inline 6s, it's kind of a mixed bag. You can have any combination of the two, but never all three.

If you want more power than you'll ever need for rodding on the street or burning rubber, at a reasonable price, then go for the 350. Period.

Want decent power, streetability and something different, then go with the 292.

I went with the 292 because I wanted to be different yet wanted the maximum power available from an old GM inline 6 that's a bolt in fit in my '66 truck.

If it was up to me on the motor- I would go with a 350 or 383 for the small blocks- very easy to get parts and you can build them absolutely any way you want it. By the way- if you need a 350 4bolt main engine, let me know- your not too far from me, I have one for sale for rebuild.