Engine options for swap to 66 Suburban

[suburban509]

I've read and searched this forum for hours and still wonder what might be the best LS engine and transmission to put in my Suburban. I'm going to try to find a complete package at the salvage yard with trans, harness, etc. Plans will be to tow around a 5000 pound camper long distances. I assume that a 4.8 is just not going to be good. So it looks like its between a 5.3 and 6.0. The 5.3 being much more affordable. What would/have you used for this? What year range engine is a better choice? Will a 4l60 do the job? I have a recently rebuilt 4l80 from a 97 Suburban that was hooked to a 7.4. Do the big block transmissions bolt to the small blocks? Year range for transmission compatibility? Thanks for any opinions.

[mongocanfly]

I would look at the early 2000s yr model 5.3/4l60s....no dod ,vvt or flex...6.0s are getting harder to find and cost more $$$$
dbc is the simplest ,and id look for a complete pullout
don't forget with a od you can and will probably need to run lower gears..depending on your tire size of course
I towed much more than 5k with my 99 5.3/4l60 for yrs and had no issues..
be sure to think about suspension and braking upgrades as well
I currently have a lq9 6.0 in my c30...gas mileage sucks while towing,,but it tows great
yes, a bb and sb use the same trans bolt pattern...and that same bolt pattern will bolt to a LS ,minus one bolt...

[suburban509]

Thanks for the information Mongocanfly. Brakes and suspension have been built for towing already. 3.73 rear gear at this time but will change if needed to something higher. Just need to pick out the driveline. A complete setup is what I prefer to find. Nice to know that my transmission can be used if needed.