1965 389 cubic inch pontiac

[onearmedbandit]

Any advice about 1965 pontiac 389 cu in. Was told it would fall into the big block catagory. Fresh rebuild all new bottom end new pistons missing the cam shaft and lifters.All brackets and misc assys. needs assembly. Would this make a good Airboat engine. And what would the value be?

[Bruce]

small block chevy big block chevy ls series chevy those make good airboat engines

[cntry141iq]

sell it to someone who is restoring a GTO and get you a small block chevy 383

[scottyroll]

I don't know much about this engine model but I believe that there are more proven power combos available and in use. However, having something different (that works well and that you already have) can be a special thing and if it's built right, has good part replacement options, and can operate reliably; then I guess it would be just as good as any other comparable V-8 out on the water. I also believe that other important specs such as "power to weight ratio" and optimal operating characteristics are vital to choosing a suitable airboat power plant as well. I have a gm350 and I bet it would be nice to have another 39cubes or so if I didn't have to pay in weight

[barhopper]

I agree with cntry141. That motor was factory in the 65 GTO. Brother in law has one. Probably came with a tri power carb system. The value might be in finding a person restoring a goat, then buying a SBC based motor for an airboat build. A thing to remember is you can get SBC parts just about anywhere. Just my 2 cents. Good luck

[terrible ted]

was that called the judge.

[cntry141iq]

No it was way before the judge ... it was the first year for the GTO I believe ..

[happy harold]

raced a car with that engine on one third mile oval track about 40 some years ago. mountain of power, but heavy. mid year went back to small block. loved the motor===just didn't work.

[onearmedbandit]

Thank for all the input. That was my concern was the weight. Guy wants 500.00 for it. I would have to buy a bigger boat and that just not in the budget right now. I'll just keep banging my 4 bangger for now.