Quote:
Originally Posted by cuda
I'm kicking around engine options for my recently acquired '87 1/2 ton 4wd, The TBI motor that's in it, while reliable, is seriously lacking in the power department. I thought about stroking the engine, but the factory heads would have to be replaced, stroker kit, machine work, etc., and the bill starts to add up. I am also considered building the 454 that I have laying around in my garage, but that conversion also starts to add up via a new transmission, mounts, removing the a/c box, machine work, rebuild kit, etc. By the time I've invested that much money, time, and work into one of these two alternatives, I could buy a complete, turnkey 5.3/4L60E or 6.0 vortec/4L80E (best trans I ever had) with computer, harness re-wired etc. for ~$2500-3000. However, I don't know if anyone makes motor mount kits and various other adapters that would be necessary.
If anyone knows anything about this swap for this generation of truck, I would be most grateful for any info. I put an LT1/T56 in my '69 camaro, so I understand most of the hidden costs that add up, particularly with port injection swaps, but I want to break this down to see if it would be only marginally more expensive than the two aforementioned options. If it is, I would rather have the clean power and reliability of the new combo. Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks.
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Why not just get an older built 350that is carburated with no polution junk?
Example I put a LM1 in mine, added edelbrock performer non egr intake and an edelbrock 650 thunder series off road carb, dual exhaust, etc.
Im not sure of my horsepower but im guessing 275. But their are all kinds of crate 350s that are 300 plus and they are just a bolt in deal. Lots of bang for the buck.
Honestly though with fuel prices the way they are if I was you I would be looking at putting a diesel in it. A 6.2 with aftermarket turbo would be a easy bolt in. But a 6.4 or Cummins would be way better. I know it can be done. Im just not sure how much work and expense it woukld be.