mallard

I found a listing for a 1983 k5. overall, it's in decent shape (for a project base). The guy says it runs fine until it get to normal operating temp. Then it sputters and dies as if its out of gas. Any guesses on what the problem may be. I'd like to know what I might be getting in to before I buy it.

mudmaniac

My guess would be issues with the carb, sounds like it's running lean after the choke opens up.

mallard

Nope, It's a blown head gasket, or worse a cracked head. When the thermostat opens up at operating temp, water/coolant gets in to one or more cylinders. I passed this one up. The guy was asking more than it was worth to fix it.

mudmaniac

Good eye, but maybe still a good project vehicle if he adjust the price.

soivaky09

sounds like a good price, I really want an LQ9 but if I found an LQ4 for a good price then I think Id do that. Was it worth the swap, did you notice a good amount of power?

myotherchevyisablazer

sounds like a good mud bogger project eh george