Froze block, are 4.3's interchangeable with 229's?

[WildBillArthur]

Like a dummy, I didnt get all the water out of my block and it froze. Still runs, but it blew the freezeplug out and filled the crankcase with water. What I am trying to do is get this thing on the water as cheap as possible. <br /><br />The block is a chevy 229 (3.8L). I have heard it has a different firing order then the 4.3L's. 4.3's are easier to find around here so I was wondering if I would be able to re-use the flywheel and balancer or not. I really have a two part question, one, where could I get a bare 229 block cheap, and two, would I be cheaper to convert a 4.3L over to work in the boat. I was hoping the cam could be switched over but maybe it wont work, I know the boat has specific style cam in it. I know the intake will swap over and hopefully the oil pan. <br /><br />BTW, I am in Southern MS, near Mobile AL, and the boat is for sale if someone else wants it, I just want to get an aluminum fishing boat. The boat is still in NC right now but I hope to get it down here in the next month to start working on it. Thanks!

 

[TwoBallScrewBall]

Re: Froze block, are 4.3's interchangeable with 229's?

I think that the 3.8 is a 60 degree v6 and the 4.3 is a 90 degree v6. Well, I know the 4.3 is a 90 degree engine, not 100% sure about the 3.8. I'm pretty sure the bellhousings are different. Depending on how much work you're willing to do (or pay to have done) anything is possible though....

 

[WildBillArthur]

Re: Froze block, are 4.3's interchangeable with 229's?

They are both 90 degree engines. The 4.3 was an updated 229 from what I have read. I guess my question boils down to, is the balance on the flywheels the same, so that I can reuse the flywheel. Also, can I reuse the distributor or do I have to get something else. I know they have the same firing order, but apparenly use different camshafts? That makes me think the odd/even firing order would make the distributor from the 229 not be the same as the one on a 4.3. Thanks for the help!