The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Locked Up Engine, Need Help!

My dad recently finished his dream of rebuilding an old truck. Sadly, he died of cancer shortly afterwards, never getting to ride in it completed. I now own the truck, and it is still in the process of being finished. Paint is done and inside is done. But the only thing on the dash that works is the speedometer. Well, last week I either ran it hot or ran it without oil. Both of which are bad. Now the engine wont turn over and even try to turn over. We have tried rolling it down a hill and popping the clutch...but to no avail.

My question to you fine people is: Is there anythign else I can try? If not, what do you think a resonable price for having it rebuilt would be? and also, would it be better to just put a new engine in?

Truck specs: 1968 Chevy 1/2 ton stepside longbed. 350 V8 (small block , I think?).

You may email me at [email protected] or just post here. I just really need help.

It,s no doubt you have serious engine damage. The best way on that model is to get a new G.M. goodwrench engine. If you or your freinds can,t put it in check with a good shop. Some of the fellow stovebolters in your area may be able to help. You may not have a 350 but the 350 will replace any small block from that era. You should be able to purchase one from a G.M. dealer that handles a lot of them for less than $1500 with the taxes. Post if you need some more help.

Thanks man, I will look around for an engine. But I honestly have no idea what can and cant fit in there. I am obviously new to this. So if there is any type of list of things that the engine needs to have then tell me. Like can truly ANY 350 fit..or just ones from 68-72 or what. And if not, then do I really need a small block or can I go larger. I would like to make it a little quicker than it was when it ran so bigger and faster is always better. Also, since it is a 3-speed will that effect the engine?

The rear end gearing will likely play a bigger role in how fast your truck will go than the engine. A 350 should give you all the power you need (perhaps not all you want . . .). It is really remarkable what a good or inventive mechanic can squeeze into an engine bay.

For simplicity and cost effectiveness, a new 350 is a good option. I had one dropped into a 1976 Blazer by a pro and it was a quick swap at under $2000. In response to your question, I would imagine that any 350 will work for you (this is not my area of expertise so listen to Wrenchbender - he's terrific) - what matters is whether it will bolt to your bellhousing on your transmission.

There are lots of discussion threads on increasing horsepower and upgrading brakes and the front end to improve performance, safety, or driving comfort here on the Stovebolt Page. Try using the search tool that is in small print just under the "Post Topic" buttons - you will be amazed at what's available.

Good luck.

Any chevy small block chevy engine from 1963 to 1985 will bolt right in. A 350 with an aluminum intake & 4 barrel will make all the power you need.

pour some marvins mystery oil in your old moter let it sit for a couple days it might free up this worked for me once

Thanks for all the help guys. I will post some picture of it soon. I also just got an estimate from my mechanic that I use all the time. He said $400-600 to install an engine if i could find one. And about $400 for him to look at the locked up one and see if he could fix it....are these resonable?

If it locked up because it didn't have water or oil in it, it's probably super jacked up.

It's not hard to find decent running 350 engines for under $300.. i've seen entire vehicles with decent running 350's in 'em sell for less.. so it really depends on your budget.. but i'm sure you can find a replacement motor for what this guy wants to "see if he could fix it".

For a direct drop in install, i'd say $400 is probably a fair going price for such work.. especially if the truck has a manual tranny.