edac

So I think I trashed the engine in my 99 Express. I was looking to do some research on the history of this engine. Should I just replace it? Scrap the van? up grade to a different engine? Can any one point me to good links?
Saw a local guy with a Jasper engine still wrapped on the skid for $1000, but it's for a non vortec. Will it work?
I don't expect any one to spend too much typing on this, but some good links would be appreciated. Thank you in advance.