gas to diesel conversion

[79GMC_OLDS]

Originally Posted by mmusmanno

basically, I dig the truck, so, I want to do it right. i'm not married to a 6.2 or a 6.5, just thought it would be simplest. but, i'm all for a cummins. what would be the best engine/setup for performance? horsepower AND torque? my local mechanic will do the job but he wants me to get a donor vehicle. so, if you guys agree, what vehicle should I get, if not, then what do you think is the best way to get this new powerplant and get it in? thanks.

well a 5.9 cummins will give you the most hp and torque the easiest but it will destroy your stock running gear in a hurry. a 3.9 4bt you can get from a p30 stepvan. if you are running a th350 or 400 tranny then find a p30 with a 4bt/th400 combo and you will have the parts to bolt it up. you will need custom motor mounts and plumbing and wiring and exhaust etc. they come with 100-120 hp i believe but also have approx 300ft lbs just off idle. there are lots of things to do to increase power if needed. there are also a couple posts on ck5.com with some guys that have done it.