Just wondering what my options for an engine swap would be. I have a 1981 b250 camper van with 318 2 barrel. The engine is very tired and i would like more power. What could fit with minor adjustments? Or should i just source another 318 of the same year and put some mods on it.

 

360 would probably drop right in.

 

I'm a big believer in trying chemicals to juice up your engine...
cheap enough to try... I like these two products



Motorkote
http://www.walmart.com/ip/MotorKote-...32-oz/19887630

I saw an immediate improvement in pickup after using one bottle of Restore and continued imporvement after using 2 and 3...

Motorkote goes in all oiled areas, engine, transmission, diff, power steering...
use according to directions on bottle

 

In that vehicle, a 360 should bolt right in and give the the best bang for the buck.

 

Bolt in yes, but remember the 318 is an internally balanced motor while the 360 is an externally balanced motor and requires the torque converter with the weight on it. Without the weight the engine will shake itself apart.

 

Apologies for my omission, I forgot. Alloro is correct. Swapping to a 360 will also require swapping to a torque converter/flexplate designed for the 360 engine but other than this it should present no problems.

 

I'd go with the larger 360 ; even with low miles my carbed 318 is just feels to taxed in my 250 conversion van. Seems a good used 360 would be about the same price as a 318 anyway.

 

I'd rebuild the 318. No reason to drop in a slightly bigger motor. Save parts and cash... you're not going to notice anything with the 360.

 

The difference between a 318/360 will be felt when you load the van and drive up long or steep grades.

Like others have mentioned you need a 360 TQ converter other than that you should have a straight forward job.

I always like to remind folks removing/installing van engines is a serious job especially your first time.

 

Yes, the Hayne's manual for the Dodge vans has a good write-up on pulling the 360. I believe they say to remove the exhaust manifolds first. Having to deal with the AC system would be a pain too, that's something you'd probably want to have done at your place if possible.

Is it possible to exchange a 1991 TBI 318 with a same year 360?

Steve