What engine is in a 1986 Chevy truck?

A 1986 Chevy truck could be equipped with several engines, depending on the model, trim, and options. The common gasoline choices were a 2.5L inline-four, 2.8L V6, 4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, and 5.7L V8, with a 6.2L diesel available on certain configurations.

Gasoline engine options

Chevrolet offered a range of gasoline engines in 1986 to cover light daily use through heavier-duty work tasks. The following engines were commonly found across the C/K lineup and related models:

• 2.5L inline-4 Iron Duke


• 2.8L V6


• 4.3L V6


• 5.0L V8 (5.0/307)


• 5.7L V8 (5.7/350)

In practice, base and mid-range models tended toward the smaller powerplants, while higher trims and heavy-duty configurations could be optioned with larger V8s for towing and tougher workloads.

Diesel option

For buyers seeking torque and fuel economy, a 6.2L V8 diesel was available on select configurations in 1986. The diesel offered robust low-end torque, appealing to fleet operators and those hauling heavier loads.

• 6.2L V8 diesel (mechanical injection)

Diesel availability varied by market and model, and many buyers still leaned toward gasoline engines for broader parts availability and service networks.

Verification and context

Because Chevrolet’s 1986 lineup spanned multiple body styles—C/K pickups, Blazers, Suburbans—and many option packages, the exact engine in a given vehicle should be verified by checking the build sheet, VIN, or engine stamp. This is especially important for restoration or parts matching.

Engine characteristics at a glance

Broadly speaking, the gasoline engines ranged from economical four-cylinders to the robust V8s, offering a spectrum of horsepower and torque suitable for everyday driving or heavier-duty tasks common to 1980s pickups.

Summary

For a 1986 Chevrolet truck, the engine lineup included the 2.5L inline-four, 2.8L V6, 4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8, and a 6.2L diesel, with exact availability dependent on the model and option package. Verify the specific engine via the vehicle’s build data to ensure accuracy for repairs, resale, or restoration.

What engine is in a 1986 Chevy C10?

Under the hood, the 1986 K10 offered a range of engines, including the popular 305 cubic-inch V8 and 350 cubic-inch V8, delivering solid power and torque. Paired with either a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission, this truck was built for durability and versatility.

What year is the best Chevy 350 engine?

The best Chevy 350 engine is often considered to be the 1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L due to its significant improvements in performance and efficiency. This version features Vortec cylinder heads for better airflow and the more durable hydraulic roller camshaft. While earlier models were simpler, later ones like the Vortec offered a stronger block design (880 casting), which is ideal for high-performance builds. 
This video explains the advantages of the Vortec 5.7L engine: 58sMyvintageiron7512YouTube · Mar 17, 2023
1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L 

• Vortec cylinder heads: Significantly improved airflow and combustion efficiency, leading to better performance and fuel economy. 
• Hydraulic roller camshaft: This provides greater durability and reduced wear on the valvetrain compared to older flat-tappet cams. 
• Stronger block: Blocks with the "880" casting number were used during this time and are built for roller cams, making them a great foundation for building a high-performance engine. 

Other notable years

• Early 1990s (with roller cam): These engines are also desirable because they came with a roller valvetrain, but some may lack a provision for a mechanical fuel pump. 
• 1970 LT-1: For those seeking raw, early-era power, the 1970 LT-1 version is a legendary, high-performance option with solid lifters and high compression. 
• 1986 and newer (one-piece rear main seal): Engines from 1986 and newer are equipped with a one-piece rear main seal, which is different from the two-piece seal found on older engines. This distinction is important when selecting a compatible flywheel or flexplate. 

How much horsepower does a 1986 Chevy 350 have?

A stock 1986 Chevy 350 engine had a horsepower rating of approximately 198 hp for trucks or 145-210 hp for other applications, varying based on the vehicle and specific engine configuration. The higher horsepower for the truck was due to its 4-barrel carburetor and dual-plane intake. 
Horsepower by application

• Trucks: Around 198 hp, an increase from previous years. 
• Cars: Varies by model, but typically in the 145-210 hp range. 
• Corvette: For comparison, the Corvette had a higher horsepower rating around 195 hp in earlier generations due to a higher-performance configuration. 

Factors influencing horsepower

• Carburetor: Some models used a four-barrel carburetor, which significantly increased horsepower. 
• Engine configuration: Swirl port heads and other specific components, such as the camshaft and intake manifold, also influenced horsepower. 
• Emissions equipment: Modern emissions equipment and other regulations impacted horsepower ratings throughout the 1980s. 

Is a Chevy 305 a good motor?

A Chevy 305 is a reliable, fuel-efficient engine that is good for daily driving, but it is not a powerhouse. Its reputation is often negative due to low factory horsepower ratings and early camshaft failures from poor quality control in some models, though higher-performance versions like the L69 and LB9 were respectable street performers for their time. While it's generally better to start with a 350 for high-performance builds, the 305 can be upgraded and has a strong presence in some racing classes due to its affordability.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the 305 engine's performance and potential: 1mRatMaroYouTube · Jan 17, 2023
Pros

• Reliable and durable: Can last for 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. 
• Fuel-efficient: Better gas mileage compared to the 350. 
• Affordable: Often inexpensive to acquire because of its poor reputation, making it a good and affordable base for a reliable daily driver or budget-friendly project. 
• Good for specific racing classes: Has found success in entry-level and affordable classes like "Econo Sprint" and NHRA Stock/Super Stock racing, and can be modified for respectable performance. 

Cons

• Low horsepower: Standard models have low factory horsepower, and it takes more effort to make power compared to a 350.
• Poor reputation: A history of poor quality control in some years led to premature camshaft failure, tarnishing its image.
• Overhead cost for performance: You can spend the same amount of money trying to get high performance out of a 305 that you would spend building a more powerful 350 from the start.
• Not ideal for high performance builds: Other engines like the 350, 400, or 327 are generally better choices for performance builds. 

This video demonstrates a comparison between the 305 and 302 engines: 50sEngine PowerYouTube · Mar 22, 2025
Verdict

• Good for daily drivers and budget builds: Yes, if you are looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient V8 for transportation. 
• Good for high-performance builds: No, it is generally not the best choice. A 350 is a better starting point for building a high-horsepower engine. 
• Good for racing: Yes, for entry-level or budget-focused racing classes where its affordability is a major advantage.