Or what I would do (cheaper than a new vehicle) and depending on the condition of the rest of the vehicle

Buy Spartan/ATK Engines Spartan Remanufactured Chevy Engine DCK9 at Advance Auto Parts

 

A crate motor might be faster, but rebuilding is probably the best option. When it came time to rebuild/replace the 350 in my chevelle, I didn't have the luxury of having the car down for a proper rebuild, so I bought one of those "goodwrench" crate motors. The price was comparable to a full rebuild, and the quality was ok, but I wish we had rebuilt it. I would have spec-ed it out a little differently and had better power and probably better mileage, too.

Also, if you do attempt it yourself, get a factory service manual. Haynes/Chiltons are better than nothing, but in my experience leave a lot to be desired.

 

if you do go with either a rebuild or a crate, go ahead and buy a new oil pump too. they are that much money and its cheap "insurance" that you wont have the same problem. and you have make sure that you "prime" the motor with oil before you put the distributor in. its one of the last things that you will do before you hit the key.

 

thanks for everyones help. It was just too big of a job for me to tackle so I sent it out. I found a replacement engine with 84K miles on it and I am having a shop do the replacement. should get in back within 2 weeks. Thanks again for all the input

 

Mind me asking how much the shop is charging you for the replacement? Mine developed a knock today.. changing oil and adding engine additives tomorrow to see if thats the problem.. BUT have been having problems. so looking to just replace it.