Newbie - 1st Question
 

I have a 71 C10 with a 350/350 setup, but am looking at dropping a 5.3L Vortec from a 07 Tahoe with the 4L60E. I am looking for a more efficient package (better mileage/4 spds with od) for everyday use. I have found one already, but I am curious at everyone's thought's, experience with similar swaps, concerns, etc.

Any info would be appreciated

Re: Newbie - 1st Question
 

I'd suggest you drive it as is for a year.
The rear gear may not agree.

Re: Newbie - 1st Question
 

Tere are lots of LS swaps being done or on the road.There are quite a few documented on here.Search for threads about it and do some research so that you make a better informed decision.

Re: Newbie - 1st Question
 

EFI Engine swaps are a lot of work. Depending on your personal skill level and bank account it could be more or less work.
Spend a lot of time reading and searching this form. Many have blazed this trail here.

Enjoy and welcome! I know we all looking forward to reading about your progress and remember, It did not happen if there are no pictures!

Re: Newbie - 1st Question
 

I've done several LS engine trans swaps into various vehicles and the best cost savings advice I can give you is to find a "Complete" Take-out from what-ever donor vehicle having the engine / trans you want, Escalade, Tahoe, Denali 5.3, 6.0 6.2 / 4L60E, etc. and Get "EVERYTHING", when I say Everything, I mean Everything. Engine with All accessories, alternator, A/C, power steering, all pulleys, brackets, PCM (computer) wiring harnesses both engine and trans, exhaust.

WHY? Because while we all enjoy the costs of buying an alternator for our Venerable Chevys at O'Reilly, or Auto-Zone for $24.00, an LS alternator runs $250.00- $300.00, a water pump $250.00, just plug wires for an LS2 or LS3 are over $400.00, intake gaskets are $225.00.

With numbers like these, you can easily see while after spending $6000.00 for a new crate engine, with little on it you could go broke, buying GM brackets and accessories before you even look at custom engine mounts exhaust and computer programming to name a few of the other things you'll need.

Sorry for the long post, but I hope it helps

Re: Newbie - 1st Question
 

Welcome junkyard53....and thanks Lees68GMC for that parts cost info! I had no idea those "basic" items were that pricey. Glad to keep my stock 350.

Re: Newbie - 1st Question
 

Yup, the 4 bolt 350 and turbo 400 are staying in mine for quite a while too.

Even the Engine / Trans combo Take-outs from Camaro, Trans-Am, 98-2002 the old LS1 stuff, usually really high mileage are still $4500.00+. And a smoking deal Take-out price for most newer GM truck motors are around $3500.00 - $4500.00 Provable Mileage is always a major cost concern too. The last New GM Crate Engine I did for myself was an LS2 and it was $5800.00 naked and no trans.

Re: Newbie - 1st Question
 

Yeah I have the complete X-Over with harness, CPU and accessories. My initial concern is additional costs besides the Eng/Trans. (i.e. mounts anything else I would need)