If you’re building a 1947–1972 Classic Chevy truck, engine choice is the biggest decision you’ll make. Two paths dominate: stick with a freshened SBC, or go full LS swap.
SBC 350 Route – The Classic Choice
The small block 350 is a natural fit. Parts are cheap, knowledge base is huge, and it bolts in without fabrication. A mild cam, Edelbrock carb and intake can push you past 350hp on a street budget. The Edelbrock 1407 750 CFM Performer Carb is a great bolt-on choice for street/strip use — excellent metering, great street manners.
If you want a thumping lopey idle, the COMP Cams Big Mutha Thumpr Kit adds serious character with strong mid-range pull.
LS Swap Route – Modern Power
The LS swap is the most popular choice for daily drivers and restomod builds. A 5.3 or 6.0 junkyard LS nets 300–400whp with a tune and basic bolt-ons. You’ll need LS swap engine mounts for the Classic C10 to properly mount the engine in the frame.
For wiring, the Painless Performance 60508 LS Swap Harness is the cleanest standalone solution.
Bottom Line
- Want cheap, easy, period-correct? → SBC 350
- Want modern power, reliability, EFI? → LS swap
Both are great choices. What are you running in your build?