[North Texas Hog Dog]

Hi, my project is a 57 gmc. I have a .60 over 350 sbc for an engine to be installed. I know little about the motor. I have been reluctant to install because of the unknown. So now I have been rethinking about another power plant. My 57 is not trailer queen worthy but, still a nice ride. Would like something unique, but not a dollar pit. Any suggestions, the confusion is getting worse. I plan to give this ride to my oldest daughter when that time comes.

 

[WDCreech]

Hi, my project is a 57 gmc. Would like something unique, but not a dollar pit. Any suggestions, the confusion is getting worse.

If that GMC origionally came with a V8, it would have had a Pontiac engine in it. Even if it came with a six cylinder, I would put a Pontiac in it and it still would be unique. A Chevy would probably be less expensive, but they are like belly buttons, everybody's got one!

Bill

 

[vinniekq2]

If its for your daughter,why not put a cheap/reliable/easy to service/cheap on gas 5.3 ls style engine?

 

[techinspector1]

Like the OP, I'm torn between two choices here. One way to do it would be to use a '73-'78 Pontiac 400 because the heads would be compatible with unleaded fuel, but Vinnie's suggestion almost makes too much sense.....almost. :thumbup:

 

[starnest]

Good suggestions.

I would look at the goals you have in mind.

Since you have plans to give this to your daughter, how is she going to use the truck? Daily driver, ice cream runs, spirited driving, or all out racing?

What is going to be most important? Reliability, economy, performance?

When will you be giving it to her? Is there time before that where you want to use it first?

Then there are the usual considerations, budget, ability, schedule to consider. Make a list so you know what you want to end up with, then make a plan with a budget in mind before you choose.

I must say, I would love to have a 57 GMC truck.

 

[boatbob2]

Your daughters truck..........

X2,on the other suggestions,BUT,i would install 3 point seatbelts ,and an unubtrousive roll bar in it.AND make sure she understands,first time spotted,without using the seat belts,truck is grounded for 1 month...

 

[Valkyrie5.7]

If that GMC origionally came with a V8, it would have had a Pontiac engine in it. Even if it came with a six cylinder, I would put a Pontiac in it and it still would be unique. A Chevy would probably be less expensive, but they are like belly buttons, everybody's got one!

Bill

Another vote for the poncho. :thumbup:

 

[North Texas Hog Dog]

Good suggestions.

I would look at the goals you have in mind.

Since you have plans to give this to your daughter, how is she going to use the truck? Daily driver, ice cream runs, spirited driving, or all out racing?

What is going to be most important? Reliability, economy, performance?

When will you be giving it to her? Is there time before that where you want to use it first?

Then there are the usual considerations, budget, ability, schedule to consider. Make a list so you know what you want to end up with, then make a plan with a budget in mind before you choose.

I must say, I would love to have a 57 GMC truck.

Thanks for all the reply's! I wanted to give my gmc (great mountain climber) to my oldest daughter when I expire. I was driving this pickup when the urge hit me. Approx. 4 days a week. I am retired so when the time occurs I am sure that reliability would be a big factor with my daughter. Of course, I lean toward the performance side. I know little about the pontiac motors except the gto's run 389s.in the 60's. A roller motor sounds very good. I see my daughter driving to town and some car shows in the area. My son-in-law might have different ideas. lol The truck has a 400 turbo with 12 bolt 410 gears, 29 inch tires. I enjoyed the question if I would drive it myself before my daughter gets it. Hopefully, I will be driving it awhile. My saviour knows that answer. Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving! :thumbup:

 

[North Texas Hog Dog]

X2,on the other suggestions,BUT,i would install 3 point seatbelts ,and an unubtrousive roll bar in it.AND make sure she understands,first time spotted,without using the seat belts,truck is grounded for 1 month...

I maybe alittle late on the grounding. My oldest daughter is 36. Maybe the roll bar and three point for the son-in-law.

 

[Custom10]

Well that sounds like a nice truck to get dirty on. If I may add to the other good thoughts,,,find out what you have, dig into the 350, you may be pleasant lee surprised.

Plan B yeah the pontiac mill, did not know about that. There is my learn something new for the day thanks

 

[starnest]

Well that sounds like a nice truck to get dirty on. If I may add to the other good thoughts,,,find out what you have, dig into the 350, you may be pleasant lee surprised.

I agree with this. Get the casting and stamped codes on the block and heads and we can help you figure out what you have to work with.

1) The money saved by using the 350 you have could be well spent making it unique (think turbo, blower, 3x2/2x4 carbs, or a cool retro FI unit).

2) The 350 offers great reliability and performance at a reasonable cost, and is a good match to the T400 and 12 bolt w/411 gearing.

3) Use some period correct (late 60s) speed parts to compliment the 350. Or make the 350 look like a 283/327 and use late 50s early 60s speed parts.

Hope you have a lot of time to enjoy the truck, I'm sure your daughter feels the same way. :thumbup:

 

[Valkyrie5.7]

I think these trucks were available with an oldsmobile v8 too. It'd be cool to see a 371 or 394 powering one if you can get your hands on one.

 

[WDCreech]

GMC only used Oldsmobile engines in the larger trucks.