2.8 v-6 engine replacement options
 

I posted this question a couple months ago, and then lost the info you guys provided because of a computer crash. I have a weak 2.8 in a 1987 S-15 Jimmy, and need some ideas about upgrading to gain some power. I do not want another gutless 2.8. I appreciate your help, and I will print the info this time. Thanks!

A small block is not hard to do. They say a Ford Tempo radiator, stock exhaust manifods, and better front springs is all you need.
If you have a 4 or 5 speed, it would be wise to swap to either a stronger tranny, or an automatic.

problem is the bellhousing bolt pattern, he would have to swap in a 4.3L V-6 or larger tranny to install a V8. have same dilemma in tthis 85 4x4 Cherokee out here, has a GM 2.8L with a Chysler 904 bolted to it, an oddball deal...the tranny is bad and 2.8 has 197k on it, its tired, I dunno how its even stil alive..I dont think the NP207 T-case could handle a V8.
I think the only engines were offered were the 2.5L Tech-4, the pos 2.8L V6, and the nice little 4.3L V-6,,,,, and thats it for the S series truck engine choices, 82-up of course.

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Randy- Lincoln, IL
r68c30@hotmail.com -------------
Fleet, currently:
68 C-30 dually dump, driver
72 K5 chassis; partially disassembled
79 G10 sportvan, driver
77 Electra boatcar, driver
76 1500 in pieces, scrap
68 C10 in pieces, scrap

America and 68's rule !

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/usaflag.gif

Hey barn9-
Summit carries S-series SBC conversion kits that include motor mounts and tranny mounts for a TH350. If I remember right, the kit is only about $60. Some day I'm going to start a project like that too. Good luck, man!

Here's Summit's website in case you don't have it: http://www.summitracing.com

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joel
78 C10
Currently: 250/TH350

Thanks guys, but I am thinking more of a replacement V-6 like a 3.4 or something that will bolt right in. Someone had some info about that changeover, but I lost it when my computer crashed (damn webshots). Anyone?

Fast, they also had an Isusu 1. something in the early '80's truck...wasn't even worth remembering.
The 2.5, i believe, had the small block belhousing size.

heres an option. Take your stock 2.8L. Get some camaro or pontiac fiero 2.8L heads. they have bigger valves. Add a compression ratio of about 9.5:1. Take the crank and pistons out of a 3.1L, they will swap right in and give you a normal 3.1L v6. Add a bigger cam, and some headers. Maybe even port the heads. You should get somewhere around 180-195hp if done right with much more torque.

The 3.4L will bolt right in, and it has a warrenty. A 4.3L v6 should bolt right in also, with a tranny change.

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1978 chevy c10
383 stroker,10:1 compression,vortec heads, roller rockers,performer RPM intake, holley 750DP, MSD ignition,comp 280H cam, headman headers, muncie four speed, 3.73 12 bolt rear.

Just be warned, the 2.8 and 3.1 both have VERY weak cranks.

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The hot rod;
a'69 G.M.C. Short/Fleet. 350 W/a heluva cam and nice stance. Still a beater though. Trying to clean up the left over damage from the Dope-Smokin-Old-Man...a real bummer. See it at http://geocities.com/andys_69_gmc/

I've been dubbed the Longhorn Freak/Fanatic/Expert, I just hope I can live up to it. Check out my Longhorn site at http://geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/8752/
IM me on Yahoo pager...cockroach93.
hey, stop laughing!!!

Check the GM performance parts catalog at your Chevy dealers for their 3.4 version of the 2.8L engine... this is not the dual overhead cam version, but will give you a lot more power without the hassle of putting in a sbc V-8. Just another option for you...
Good luck!