van towing

Going from a small block to a big block will require a lot of changes. It may be more cost effective to replace your worn 350 out with a new rebuild with a towing cam or a small block meant for towing (like a 383 stroker). Conversion to carburetor would be your best choice as the tbi is not the best. Going with an overdrive/underdrive kit from GearVendors may also be ideal; factory performance while accelerating or climbing grade is greatly improved by the torque multiplication of 6 forward ratios. It's the same reason the big 18 wheelers have 2 and 3 speed auxiliaries for 10 to 15 or more gears.

Thanks for the info. I'm not a mechanic and will have to pay someone to do the work. I'm looking for the best solution for my Van. I know towing with a van is different then a truck but I have the van and like it. Besides, I can't afford a new truck or the payments for years that come with it. So, it's the van. I would consider the small block. It's like who do I trust to really do the work with the outcome I want and need. In some respects I like the idea of the 454 because of the proven power. If a 350 modified or 383 is answer and somewhat less expensive then that's the way I'll go. I'm just trying to get the right information so I don't screw this up. Thanks