Rebuild: Crate vs. Mine

[Darin]

I really need to get my 89 GW rebuilt. (both tranny and engine), and am ready to bite the bullet and start the work, but an completely torn between rebuilding my block and getting a crate motor.

The shop I am planning on using is nudging me towards the crate motor. His reasoning is:

1. Reputation of the rebuilder he uses (TAM engines in Tacoma WA.)

2. Neither of us now a any local machine shops that are specialists on the 360.

3. Who's to say that my core would be any better than that from a crate motor.

4. Cost - it seems like it would be a couple hundered less to use the crate motor.

5. Time - Faster turnaround on the project.

I have had some bad experiences in the past with crate engines. (not for the 360) and am a bit leary of them. either way it is going to be a chunk of money and I want it done right so I can have good piece of mind. I would really appricate the opinions of those on this board. I no there is not one right way, but I'd like thoughts on this. As well, I'd be curious to know if you all think that a semingly high end crate motor, like one from Jasper is worth the cost differene of say one from a Napa.

That being said, my other goal no matter which route I take is to also add on the Edlebrock kit, MSD ignition.

So what do you think I should do? have my current block rebuilt or go with the crate motor?

What other mods / upgrades should I be considering? I'm looking for a strong truck that will do well on the highway for longer trips, some towing ~3000 lbs. I don't "wheel" this truck, but use 4WD on a half dozen hunting trips a year.

[joe]

Is TAM the rebuilder that does the NAPA rebuilds? I know my local NAPA contracts an outfit in Tacoma and they have a good rep. If that's the case I'd go with the NAPA if you don't want to do your original.

[GWDriver]

Does anyone know of ( and I'm not sure how this is sup[posed to be), City Motor Supply or Motor City Supply in the Fort Worth area?? Any experience with them?

When I worked with O'Reilly, I did a quick search on the net for engine rebuilders and couldn't find any real consistency on the rebuilds offered. Prices for long blocks also were in the $1500 - $2300 realm. Seemed a bit high for a reman.

I'll probably have to do mine when I get home. I'm also intrigued.

Good thread. Hope you find your answer.

[79_Limited]

I bit the bullet and got a Jasper 360 last year and have been very happy with it. I did not have the time nor the expertise to do my own rebuild so I was cool with the cost difference.

I had to call Jasper the other day for a technical question and they knew their stuff.

You might not get as good a warranty on a rebuild as you you will a crate.

Good luck.

[billyrb]

heck, forget both options.....buy my setup! It's already built, broken in, and has lots o' performance goodies on the engine & tranny!