Before you get to deep in this I would call one of the bigger GM dealers in your area and price a NEW 305 crate engine and ask about the warrenty.

I would then all 1 or 2 of the more reputable rebuilders in the area and ask the same questions.

Finally check with the same with chain stores in your area (Auto Zone, Checker etc).

These are going to be the places you are competing with.


I'm sure you have already priced the cost of rebuilt kits, but unless you are doing this as a school project (HS shop/trade school) and have access to machine shop equiptment you need to contact athe machine shop that is going to be doing the work and get prices on the following:

Cleaning (hot tanking/baking etc)
Boring and honing
Installing cam bearing
Decking if necessary
Checking the heads for cracks
Valve guides
Valve job

Prices/demand does vary from region to region so you need to find out what it is for you locally. After you add all this up can your engine compete price wise?

Finally when it's time to sell the motor how are you prepared to stand behind it if the new owner has problems (either self-inflicted or from your work)?


I'm not trying to talk you out of this, but I don't want to see you put a lot of time and money into a motor you either have to sell at a loss or are stuck with.