Close to Taking on a big Project

[SS From the "Wood"]

New to this forum, as I've been spending the latter part of my life driving performance sedans, but have always had an obsession that ran very deep w/ the square bodies of the '80's. My first vehicle was an '82 GMC SB 1/2 Fleetside that my dad and I spent about 8mos frame off restoring. So I guess that explains it. Why the late model sedans? A long career in the real estate business, but God's pointed me in another direction recently. Working in a more blue-collar environment (not knocking it... loving it) gives me the chance to get back into a truck, and actually have the time to wrench on it. My modern attitude had me looking at the $30K+ Sierra Denali's that were cammed & tuned, but God again brought me to the conclusion that it wasn't for me. I needed something more than what it would've provided, and I was close to owning it. Believe me it was bad to the bone!

So onward... I recently was inspired by an old Truckin' Magazine feature of a Hill's Hot Rods build, and that's where mod hell started for me! I wanted something that was super cool, daily driveable, held my family, and would cook some thick meats. Realizing my undeniable love of this era pickup, I decided to move forward with a crew cab 1/2 ton SWB project, and likely after Christmas will make a deal on it's inception! Even have my wife's blessing, so I'm 90% there!

Of course at this point I'm in my project management research phase, and trying to make a decision on a powerplant. My previous square had a .60 overbore 350 w/ a .400 crank totaling 388ci's. I'm not certain that I wanna go that radical w/ what will be a SBC mill. Maybe a 383 stroker. That's where I'm stuck. I would like to go fuel injected over carb, but which style? I like a nice, modern lopey sound, so I think I'll put it on my square body brethren to help me decide. I don't have a million dollars, but I'm not poor either. Yet. I'd like to take advantage of as many bargains as possible.

Please feel free to offer thoughts freely and honestly. I've been enjoying some of the project/build threads the last few days, and admire the support you guys give. In the end I know I'll have a sweet ride, that's low and mean, and likely the envy of the 16 year olds today! That's what I want afterall. Talk to you guys soon.

-Shannon (hailing from Clear Lake/Houston, TX)

[my4by2]

Do the LS swap man - you'll never regret it!!! Forget "old style" small blocks & just adding an EFI system - they'll NEVER be as efficient!!! You can get a plug-n-play system straight from GM or go the salvage yard route - your choice! Got mine through Mast Motorsports, but there's a million options out there! Look forward to seeing which way you go no matter what you decide though.

[harnalien]

It's getting to be so easy to do an LS swap. Just do piety of research and try to avoid the usual pitfalls and you'll be fine. Good luck!
Posted via Mobile Device

[SS From the "Wood"]

I'm definitely leaning toward the LS (prob 6L setup), but still trying to maintain a low budget. My worry is finding/settling on a potentially $1K engine that's got a ton of miles on it, and needs to be reworked. I've got several close friends that work for insurance company's, so I may be able to get my hands on something sweeter. ARRRRGGGHHH... what to do??? Even my dad, who's definitely an old school vet, says to go modern.

[Jonboy]

I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss the 5.3. You can find a takeout (engine, trans, accessories, and wiring) up here for around $1500, and still make respectable power. It takes a little time to find the right one with the miles you want, but they are out there.

[Greenlee]

Welcome to the forum. I'm right down the road from you and have a similar story... (grew up with these trucks and felt like going back to my roots). Looking forward to seeing your project. I agree the LS swap is probably the way to go.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Gordonr1973]

Originally Posted by Jonboy

I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss the 5.3. You can find a takeout (engine, trans, accessories, and wiring) up here for around $1500, and still make respectable power. It takes a little time to find the right one with the miles you want, but they are out there.

x2

If I was doing it over again I would go with a 5.3L

I have a 5.3 in my Avalanche and it is a decent daily driver that can is able to pass on the highway no problem.

Good luck!

[SS From the "Wood"]

I'm going to research more when I can sit down and do so tonight (moving some furniture now), but what are some performance tops end options for both 5.3 & 6.0. I'm not doIng any power adders.
Posted via Mobile Device