1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

I have this big block, 468/450HP W/headers sitting in the shop, waiting for something to go in. I would really like to put it in this cool shortbed I bought. Since I'm to busy (lazy) to do a build of any sort I wonder if just the engine swap would be straight forward and easy :smoke:
Comments,opinions and critique welcome

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

I'm not a mechanic or an automotive professional of any type so I would recomend finding someone that has done it. I think it would be pretty straight forward though. You might have to uprade your radiator, fan shroud, maybe your clutch and flywheel and possibly the motor towers "67-72 has a difference but I'm not sure about 73-87". I know motor mounts can interchange but the height difference of the towers may effect the way your fan fits in the shroud. Your on the right track with doing research!!! Hope it helps

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

Well, If you weren't so "Busy" you could do a search on the forum and find a bunch of builds that converted from small block to big block. :)

From what I have read it is pretty straight forward. I myself haven't done it so I can't offer any truly constructive advice. I really replied mostly so I could bust your balls about being lazy....oops, I mean busy.

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

Sorry bout not using search, I prefer to just ask the question. If it bothers you, forgive me please.

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

No apologies are necessary. I was just giving you a hard time because you opened the door with your busy (lazy) comment. I agree that asking a question of the group is much quicker than searching and reading through dozens of threads to answer your question. I guess the smiley didn’t convey my attempt at humor.

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

Well, honestly, I don't know what kind of vehicle you could buy that has more room under the hood than a C10 squarebody. A 1972 Eldorado, maybe?

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

It's not a C10, it's a K10. There is a front differential under there amongst other things.

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

The trans will take it, the headers maybe an issue. Clearing the Z bar

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

My thoughts as well.

I was hoping someone would chime in who has done this swap, it's always better to learn from those who have gone down the path before us...imo.

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

a big block swap is easy. I kept the factory exhaust manifolds on mine.

Re: 1985 short, step, 4X4, 350, SM465...will it take a big block w/headers?
 

Agreed, I think the swap would be a lot less painful with factory exhaust manifolds, as much as I hate to lose the headers.