350 Chevy Engine for Sale: The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your Next Powerhouse

If you’re in the market for a reliable, powerful, and versatile engine, the 350 Chevy engine is one of the most popular choices for automotive enthusiasts, restorers, and performance seekers. Known for its durability, affordability, and performance potential, the 350 Chevy engine has become a staple in the muscle car world, hot rods, trucks, and classic Chevy restorations.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 350 Chevy engine for sale — from its history and specs to tips for purchasing and maintenance advice. Whether you want a crate engine, a rebuilt one, or a used engine, this guide will help you find the right 350 Chevy engine for your vehicle and budget.

---

What Is a 350 Chevy Engine?

The Chevrolet 350 engine is a small-block V8 engine introduced by General Motors in 1967. It quickly became one of the most iconic and widely used engines in American automotive history due to its excellent balance of power, weight, and cost.

Key Features of the 350 Chevy Engine:

• Displacement: 350 cubic inches (5.7 liters)

• Configuration: Small-block V8

• Bore x Stroke: 4.00 in x 3.48 in

• Horsepower: Ranges from about 145 hp in early versions up to over 370 hp in high-performance variants

• Torque: Approximately 295 to 380 lb-ft depending on the model and year

• Fuel System: Carbureted originally; modern versions might be fuel-injected

• Compression Ratio: Varied over production years, typically between 8.5:1 to 11:1

• Years of Production: 1967 to mid-1990s (with many variations)

The 350 Chevy engine’s popularity is due to its balance of power and ease of modification, making it a favorite among racers, street enthusiasts, and daily drivers alike.

---

Why Choose a 350 Chevy Engine?

There are many reasons why someone might look for a 350 Chevy engine for sale. Here are the top benefits of this legendary engine:

1. Versatility

The 350 Chevy engine can be found in a huge range of vehicles, including muscle cars like the Camaro and Corvette, full-size trucks, vans, and even boats. Its adaptability means you can find a version that fits your specific needs, whether for restoration or performance upgrades.

2. Aftermarket Support

The aftermarket community for the Chevy small-block is massive. From performance heads and camshafts to complete crate engines, the parts availability is second to none. This means upgrades and maintenance are often easier and less expensive than other engines.

3. Reliability

Known for their durability, 350 Chevy engines are robust and capable of lasting hundreds of thousands of miles with proper care. This reliability makes them a dependable choice for both daily drivers and project vehicles.

4. Performance Potential

Stock engines are strong, but the 350 Chevy engine has huge potential for tuning and modifications. Whether you want to add a supercharger, switch to fuel injection, or upgrade internals, the 350 Chevy can be transformed into a serious performance machine.

---

Types of 350 Chevy Engines for Sale

When searching for a 350 Chevy engine for sale, you’ll encounter several options:

1. New Crate Engines

These are brand-new engines sold fully assembled and ready to drop into your vehicle. Crate engines are ideal if you want reliability and warranty-backed performance without rebuilding an engine yourself. Companies like GM Performance Parts, Edelbrock, and others offer crate versions with various horsepower levels.

2. Rebuilt Engines

Rebuilt or remanufactured engines have been taken apart, inspected, and had worn parts replaced or machined to restore them to near-new condition. These engines are a cost-effective way to get a reliable 350 without the price tag of a crate engine.

3. Used Engines

A used 350 Chevy engine might come from a donor vehicle or salvage yard. While usually cheaper upfront, used engines can vary in condition and might need repairs or rebuilding.

4. Performance/Modified Engines

Some 350 engines come pre-built with performance parts such as forged pistons, upgraded camshafts, and high-flow heads for more power and durability. These are perfect if you’re building a race car or high-performance street machine.

---

How to Find the Best 350 Chevy Engine for Sale

Finding the perfect 350 Chevy engine for sale requires some research and knowing what to look for. Here are essential tips:

1. Define Your Budget and Needs

Are you looking for a budget engine for a daily driver or a high-performance crate engine? New crate engines are more expensive but come with warranties. Rebuilt and used engines can save money but may require more work.

2. Know Your Application

Make sure the engine you buy fits your vehicle’s year, make, and model. Also, check if you need any additional components like motor mounts, wiring harnesses, or intake manifolds.

3. Ask for Detailed History or Documentation

If buying a used or rebuilt engine, request maintenance records, rebuild receipts, and details about mileage and previous use. This info helps assess the engine’s condition.

4. Inspect or Get a Professional Inspection

If possible, inspect the engine in person or hire a mechanic to check compression, leaks, and overall condition. This step can save you from costly mistakes.

5. Compare Warranty and Return Policies

Crate engines usually come with warranties, but used or rebuilt engines may not. Understand the seller’s return policy and warranty terms before purchase.

---

Popular Sources to Buy a 350 Chevy Engine

Here are some popular places to look for a 350 Chevy engine for sale:

• Local Salvage Yards: Affordable used engines are often found here, but condition varies.

• Performance Shops: Many specialize in rebuilding and selling crate or performance engines.

• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay Motors, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace offer many options. Always check seller ratings and reviews.

• OEM and Aftermarket Dealers: Companies like Summit Racing, JEGS, and GM Performance sell crate engines and performance parts.

• Specialty Forums: Chevy and muscle car forums often have classified sections with engines for sale from trusted enthusiasts.

---

Cost of a 350 Chevy Engine for Sale

The cost varies widely based on the engine’s condition, type, and power output:

• Used Engines: $500 – $1,500

• Rebuilt Engines: $1,200 – $3,000

• New Crate Engines: $3,500 – $7,000+

• High-Performance/Modified Engines: $4,000 – $10,000+

Remember that installation, additional parts, and tuning can add to the total cost.

---

Common Upgrades for 350 Chevy Engines

Once you have your 350 Chevy engine, many owners want to improve power, reliability, or efficiency. Common upgrades include:

• High-Performance Camshaft: Boosts horsepower and torque.

• Cylinder Heads: Upgrading to aluminum or high-flow heads improves airflow.

• Intake Manifold: Performance manifolds increase fuel and air delivery.

• Exhaust System: Headers and high-flow exhaust increase engine breathing.

• Fuel Injection Conversion: Modernizes the engine for better fuel economy and drivability.

• Ignition System: Upgrading to electronic ignition for better spark and efficiency.

---

Maintenance Tips for Your 350 Chevy Engine

Proper maintenance can extend the life and performance of your 350 Chevy engine:

• Regular Oil Changes: Use high-quality oil and change it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

• Coolant System Check: Keep your cooling system in top shape to avoid overheating.

• Tune-Ups: Replace spark plugs, wires, and filters regularly.

• Inspect Belts and Hoses: Prevent failures by checking wear and replacing as needed.

• Check for Leaks: Keep an eye out for oil or coolant leaks.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What vehicles came with the 350 Chevy engine originally?

A: The 350 Chevy engine was used in many Chevrolet vehicles including the Camaro, Corvette, Impala, C/K trucks, and even some boats and industrial applications.

Q2: Can I use a 350 Chevy engine in a different Chevy model?

A: Yes, the small-block Chevy 350 engine is highly adaptable. However, you may need custom mounts, wiring, and exhaust modifications depending on the vehicle.

Q3: Is the 350 Chevy engine good for towing?

A: Yes, many truck owners rely on the 350 for towing due to its strong torque output and reliability.

Q4: How many miles can a 350 Chevy engine last?

A: With proper maintenance, a 350 Chevy engine can last 200,000 miles or more.

Q5: Are crate engines better than rebuilt ones?

A: Crate engines offer brand-new components, warranty, and reliability but at a higher cost. Rebuilt engines are more affordable but may carry more risk depending on the quality of the rebuild.