CCSB Build
 

Hello all,
I have a 1984 Chevrolet Dually 1-ton. Plans are to do a CCSB i will be cutting the frame in the next month i already have a parts truck i will be transferring the 1/2 ton stuff from. Here is my major concern and kind of off topic of cutting the frame but i want to have a nice daily driver, currently the truck has no engine or trans. Which to me is good saves me work ;) im planning on doing a LSX swap but heres the thing i dont do any heavy hauling or nothing of that nature just driving around city with the family so i would like to go 4.8 engine but what are you guys thinking? should i go 4.8 or 5.3?

Re: CCSB Build
 

5.3, the 4.8 is a good motor but too small for a big truck...

Re: CCSB Build
 

5.3 all the way.

The 4.8 will get better mileage in small trucks (i'm sure the engine exists to improve the CAFE rating they have to meet). However, in a bigger truck it's going to need numerically higher gears and it will need to rev like crazy to move the truck, all while getting worse gas mileage than the 5.3

Not to mention, the 4.8 and 5.3 are the same price at wrecking yards so you aren't saving anything.

Re: CCSB Build
 

4.8 vs. 5.3 isnt really that much difference. 285hp vs. 295hp. The torque is a bit less in the 4.8 though. If you are putting it in such a big truck I'd honestly save some money and look for a 6.0 You'll be glad you did.

Re: CCSB Build
 

i'd say do a 8.1 swap and keep it a crew dually with a 6/8 drop