question about a trade I may be able to do

[ChargerRT440]

I'm thinking of trading my 1984 Truck 318 for a 383(unknown year) the 318 ran when it was together and apart everything looks like I could reassembe it with new bearing and it'd run perfectly for a stock engine. The 383 however needs a total rebuild new lifts, new cam, new pistons, etc. So I'm here to ask what you all think I should do? trade or not?

[Tom_440]

If you are doing this to make a profit, I don't really see the point.  If you want a 383 to build, then go for it.

[ChargerRT440]

Well I want a Big block and I figure if he'll trade then I'll go for it
no profit involved at all.

And how would you identify the year the block is from. I'ts from a car because of the oil pump but where would I find destinguishing marks? I'm even thinking it may be before they stamped VIN #'s on engines

[Tom_440]

On the 383 engines the ID is stamped on the top of the block near the distributor.  The stamps may include the engine size and also a series number for the year.
A=1965...B=1966...C=1967...D=1968...E=1969...F=1970...G=1971...H=1972...J=1973...

[Tom_440]

Good engine ID info here:

http://www.lentmachinery.com/auto/tools/Mopar_block_casting_numbers_and_symbol.htm

[694spdRT]

Is the engine for a Charger or ?

If it is for a truck you will need a few specific big block truck parts to install it like mounts, oil pan, and manifolds or headers.

[ChargerRT440]

It's for a 68 Dart I already have the big block k-member and it has mounts and by that page if I'm right it's a 383

[ChargerBill]

That 383 will make the Dart a little nose heavy, but IMO is nearly a perfect engine for that car as far as big blocks go. A 360 would be better for weight, but then you're out of the realm of trade possibilities. You do realize that you will have to dump at least $1,500 into that 383 and possibly upwards of $2,000 to $2,500 don't you? If you're OK with that, I say go for it. I honestly believe that the 383 is a great engine, maybe even better than the 440 (aside from the fact that the 440 produces more power). Better gas mileage than the 440, winds up faster, longer lasting, won't break parts as often, more manageable torque (can actually hook up) and in a car like the Dart that is slightly lighter than the Charger you will have a very sweet combo. BTW: The '68 Dart is one of my favorite Mopes...Any pictures of it?

[ChargerRT440]

yeah I figured it'd be a nice combo. I looked over some parts the other nice and yep I'm looking at around 1,500 to rebuild. But I'm thinking the parts I'm gonna get will hopefully make around 350 hp? I hope.
lol yeah I have pics of the Dart do you want to see them... Probably not it's not restored yet so it sits with it's rust holes but it's nice and solid. The frame and floor pans are in great condition.

http://www.cardomain.com/ride/527080/5