Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

I am mid build on my c10 project. Using all porterbuilt suspension and a ls engine swap. (you know the same thing everyone seems to be doing) so I got the idea of changing it up and using a 4bt Cummins for my engine. Biggest issue I see from first glance would probably be the oil pan needed modification to fit with the drop member. Just brain storming....

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

I didn’t vote because I’m not driving yet, but pretty much went through this same thing minus the drop member part. I’ve read of 1 or 2 guys on here that went 4bt and didn’t like it so went duramax, who knows their setup or the health of the engine for them to not have like it though.

Im just getting ready to drop my p-pump 4bt into my 69, hopefully be driving mid nov. I chose 4bt because I don’t want any extra electronics, it’s a summer driver, noise doesn’t bother me, and it will be way different. Semi built 4bt with properly sized compounds, moderately fueled and pump dialed in should be more then enough. I’m sure you could get creative with the oil pan if you go that route.

It’s all in your expectations and wether or not you’re at all familiar with diesels, don’t expect an easy 400 hp out of the little cummins either. Check out 4bt swaps, they aren’t too heavy in the hp chasing over there, but a few have taken them pretty far.

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

A 4bt is very noisey, very tall and super heavy not to mention very costly. I have 6 of them so i know.

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

I'm not sure how anyone could compare the two. Stick with the LS.

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

Unless your building a 4x4 or a rat rod truck, I'd keep the LS.

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

Way out of my price range but maybe something to consider

Cummins' new 2.8 crate engine
https://cumminsengines.com/repower.aspx

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

That’s a cool engine...

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

I like both, but the LS will be an easier swap from what I can gather. Regardless keep us in the loop with pics when u do it!

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

The first thing I have to ask is... Is the Porterbuilt front end up the the task of living under the 4BT? Please don't feel I'm bashing the Porterbuilt equipment but it is asking a lot. Those engines are easily 750 pounds without things like radiators or A/C.

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

The 4bt is heavy for sure, listed at around 750lbs wet, but the big blocks that came in these generations of trucks are listed at 650-685 dry, so according to the internet, not all that different. Obviosuly no comparison if we are talking aluminum blocks/heads.

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

I say go for the cummins, if you're looking for a challenge or just want to be different and can afford it, then go for it. might be a lot of work but when done, what a looker....((( its amazing, I just went to other sites I look at and nothing but cummins advertisements on them just because I typed the word 'cummins')))

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

4bt would be a cool swap and a step above the general LS style one. May cost a bit more but the longevity of the Diesel engine far outweighs the savings of an LS.

Re: Ls3 vs. 4bt Cummins
 

I voted for the Cummins as I want one myself. Different from everything else out there!

Bill