1979 Galaxy cracked block mercury/gm 305

I have a 1979 Galaxy with a cracked block due to not being winterized it is a mercury/gm 305 serial # 5322779. I would like to purchase a long block either a 305 or 350. But I have a few questions.<br /><br />1) Where to get it? (I am in north GA)<br /><br />2) Is it just a regular automobile engine?<br /><br />3) How much should I pay?<br /><br />4) Can I swap it over from a 305 to a 350?

Re: 1979 Galaxy cracked block mercury/gm 305

Howdy Matt... It is just a regular GM automtive engine... The only difference may be the camshaft specs and some extra paint to protect from corosion...<br /><br /> Some will say a "marine" camshaft is an absolute must have, however in many cases this does not necessarily apply... I have run 3 different inboards with "automotive" cams and in two instances the automotive (5.0 ford H.O.'s w/factory roller cam which put a healthy 351 marine cam'd engine to shame) and had no problems whatsoever... <br /><br />The 305 and 350 are the same externaly, so all of the 305 parts will bolt up to a 350 in the exact same places with no difference..<br /><br />You could find a re-manufacturered "long block" engine fron a local auto parts supply store for around $800 or less, or brand new GM 350's "crate engines" are available for about $1250 from some GM dealers... http://www.paceparts.com/product.asp?0=343&1=360&3=3169

Re: 1979 Galaxy cracked block mercury/gm 305

Go to your local Chevy dealer,+ get a 350cid, Truck engine, for the 3500series trucks... It'll already have a Great Cam in it.....<br />Add all your dressings, then Retune the Carb.+ your Ready to Go..!!

Re: 1979 Galaxy cracked block mercury/gm 305

Thanks for all the info