I have a 92 Caprice in mint condition with 305k on it with original engine (small block 305) and tranny. Doesn't burn an ounce of oil and runs like a top, but is getting tired. Since I like this car because it's white, ugly as sin and looks just like an umarked cop car (IOW people leave me alone when they see it) I would like to either drop a new motor/tranny in it or rebuild the current engine and farm out the tranny.
I have always done all of my own work, but I am pushing the envelope here I think. I have the FSM and most if not all of the tools needed.
However I am undecided as to what approach I should use and as such I am asking for some advice from people in the group.
Choice #1: Get a crate engine from GM and have the tranny shop install it when they rebuild the tranny. I have access to a proven, honest, independent place that is located in my very small town. IOW AAMCO need not apply.
Choice #2 Remove the heads myself and farm out the machining. Get an Edlebrock manifold designed to work with the OEM throttle body, very mild cam, free flow exhaust system with orignal manifolds and leave it at that.
One question I have is there any way to tell if I have the factory roller cam or the normal one without removing anything?
Advice?
Suggestions?
tia
psycho