Which 500? Race setup, or stock?

[Dano500]

Hi all!

Just joined the forum to research everything for my swap. I'm about to swap my 350 for a caddy 500 and it's going into an 84' K20 and the reason behind it is mostly for the towing power. I ordered the dapt plate from summit and I'm looking for the 425 engine mounts, so we will see how this goes. My question:

I have had the plan to get this 70' setup that is complete, but without accessories and brackets. I was initially interested in it because it has been bored and cammed (no other info available from owner)
BUT
Now I have the opportunity to get a 71' that is a stock engine with all brackets and accessories.

I assume the race prepped engine is more valuable in general, but I know it doesn't fit my needs, BUT I would rather buy alternator bracket, alternator, PS pump and bracket than to want to add these performance mods later.

Oh, and I really don't want to have to use premium gas. lol

Thoughts?

Thanks in advance,
-Dan

 

[DaveM]

I would go with the 71 with all the brackets.. I have had some bad luck with these motors with cammed flat tappet cams.. That I would only use a roller. If I were you , for what you want, the only mod I would do is change the timing chain and gears to a Cloyes chain that can be advanced 4 degrees and use that 4 degree keyway... Use the stock cam. There is no doubt you will be much happier for a towing truck.