Aftermakrket EFI or LS Swap???

[Sean C]

Hey guys. So I've been reading up on the LS swaps and there's a ton of information out there. I like the 350 I have in my truck, but since it's a daily driver for me, I need more reliability in the cold weather. I also want to swap in a manual transmission (5 or 6 speed) and so the questions arises: Which is more affordable, aftermarket EFI and new tranny OR LS/T56 swap??

My dilemma is that from what I have found the initial cost for both options is about the same, but I am not capable of freshening up the LS motor/ T56 myself, as well as moving the shifter forward to accommodate my bench seat. I believe that I can do the EFI/new tranny swap with the help of a very knowledgable neighbor, but if it would be feasible, an LS swap would just be gnarly!!

Any idea on how much it would run to have a shop do the swap for me? Any help would be much appreciated!

P.S. A 5.3L swap would also be quite alright, but I don't know all that needs to be done to a salvaged motor to make it reliable.

Sean