So far the cheapest L32 I've found was over $1000 and still not even in state. I've built 3300,3800 and so far none blew up. Now I'll also be honest and say that was mid 90s and maybe a first or second year series2. I have also "patched" couple 3800s, most likely series2 with crank kits and swapping couple of rods. I have couple friends who have worked for Jasper Engines and another rebuilder out of Illinois and they seem to have good service out of them. My plans are not concrete, as I am waiting for call back on l26 and couple of n/a series 2. I chatted with fella about 4t80e swap and he has his friend dd on lift scrounging bolt in parts. And also has way to rewire so I don't have to work over pcm but heck since seems like the following is dieing off I guess I can go my own way. He was telling me his race engines he drilled out oil galleys, removed and pinned off balance shaft holes. He also offered me a small cam if I wanted it, stuff that his engine out grew. He said he had one mount to figure out but had axle numbers handy and even sent big list on converters and gear ratios. Don't get me wrong, it's still sitting at my buddies where I found it. And so far my current plans may be sourcing used with zero mods. But I also have a 77 MONZA getting twin turbo SBC, 66 4dr Caprice I'm trying to just get road ready, and my old 78 C10 w/air ride I need back running. And all my around home projects /repairs. And just getting back to work make it all more fun.
Oh and getting Buell back in riding shape! So who knows. I am driving my mom's old 94 Olds 98 and bought parts from that to fix deer damage, maybe be series 2 if I can get cheap slap it in for now. Again not set yet on actually fully building a block and have searched around. But as stated I have built many engines and only engines so far that broke ,broke from abuse. Besides I would rather work on Grand Prix over a Cavalier! And I am a mechanic by trade so it's not like I don't have ability or tools. Time and funds may tell. But then my first cars was odd ball for some 66 Dart GT slant 6 auto, and some said 6s aren't fast, but after her build up, 1/2" strocker, 0.187" over forged pistons and rods, port/polish head, 2x4 bbl, ank headers and she was FAST. She could generally take about 8 out of 10 match races. I really shamed a Hemi Cuda! I bet $100 on 4 phone poles and he couldn't run that short found out! And if actual running parts come my way it should run pretty quick and easy.
