Tbi swap build thread

[88lowrider]

I don't have the answers but stumbled onto this thread and like what I see.
I have my Dads old 1979 Chev 4x4 pickup that has less than 48K on it.
I was thinking of pulling the top off the engine and going with a early EFI with the first generation computer ( like my 1988 GMC full size lowrider that gets 19.8mpg).
The game plan is to find a Donner and switch it over to the EFI. Now I know the fuel tank will need to be swapped too. Tanks look the same between my 79 and 88 so might just luck out.
Right now, still in the process of replacing about Everything around my 88 lowrider engine that is at 170k crate motor and fresh build on the transmission at less than 6K. The fellow that did the transmission also uses that transmission for racing so I got a good build on it.

So, will be watching and learning.

Helmar

[daddyjeep]

I will post in this one so I have it for future reference. I am putting a TBI 350 in my Jeep some time soon.

[rfmaster]

Wwes

I have to look up FP sending unit wiring. Usually it is a three wire configuration: FP +12, Common ground, fuel level. Fuel level is a resistance 0 to 90 Ohms.

According to Pollack Data sheet 42-159 fuel tank switch can handle OE pump pressures 65 PSI deadheaded. Should be just fine for TBI/TPI rated pumps.
http://products.pollakaftermarket.co...n-valve/42-159

Check supplied diagram for dual tank operation
http://products.pollakaftermarket.co...S_41-revdd.pdf

Factory wiring at the FP sending unit.
Tan-white - FP +12Vdc, circuit #120
Pink - fuel gauge, circuit #30
Black - Ground return, Circuit #150

//RF

[Wwes]

Big help, thanks sir!

Where could I get the connectors for the wire harnesses, or should I just splice/build my own?

(I'm new to wiring and such this will be an experience)

[rfmaster]

Originally Posted by Wwes

Big help, thanks sir!

Where could I get the connectors for the wire harnesses, or should I just splice/build my own?

(I'm new to wiring and such this will be an experience)

Well, it all depends how involved do you want to get with making your harness robust. In my case I can assemble weather pack connector from scratch. If you go this far use brand new Delphi connector bodies, wire insulators and pins. Assembly requires having a correct crimping tool. Purchasing a weather pack kit goes a long way. If you do not have access to connector bodies and crimping tool you can source a pig tail from JY. However, be aware that plastic gets brittle over years and pin fitment leads to corrosion. If you live in rust belt area these plugs are exposed to corrosive salt mix over years of service. IMHO not worth it.

It does not look like Pico offers a brand new service pigtails for this circuit. I would double check FP plug against catalog drawing to verify P/N.

Fuel tank plug body 12020829 - 3-way, female
Harness side Socket body 12020827 - 3-way, Male

Connector Pins
OEM# | Description | AWG Gauge
12124581 | tin brass, female | 12
12124580 | tin brass, female | 16 -14
12089188 | tin brass, female | 20 -18
12020801 | tin brass, female | 24 -22
12124587 | tin brass, male | 12
12124582 | tin brass, male |16 - 14
12089040 | tin brass, male | 20 -18
12089307 | tin brass, male | 24 - 22

//RF

[rfmaster]

Originally Posted by Wwes

Big help, thanks sir!

Where could I get the connectors for the wire harnesses, or should I just splice/build my own?

(I'm new to wiring and such this will be an experience)

So what is the status on your project???

//RF

[Wwes]

Hey RF I didn't forget you! Been on vacation for the last week so I'll work on it again next weekend. Expect an update/pictures then. Still not sure on how I'll handle the wiring, there aren't any squares around here to pick parts from!

[rfmaster]

Originally Posted by Wwes

Hey RF I didn't forget you! Been on vacation for the last week so I'll work on it again next weekend. Expect an update/pictures then. Still not sure on how I'll handle the wiring, there aren't any squares around here to pick parts from!

Ahhh - I can use a vacation as well, but work keeps me busy. What else is new!

If push comes to shove 1988-1990 B-bodies can a source (Caprice Classic equipped with LO3 or LO5) for some of the EFI related parts.

[cjracing15]

Glad to see this thread is still up and helping folks out!

[Tx Firefighter]

This is a great thread. I used it for reference several times when doing the install in my 74.

[Wwes]

Looks great Kevin, nice and clean. Stick around I'll have more questions I'm sure!

[Wwes]

Hey RF - I am making progress again.

I have a full fuel harness from a donor truck. I'm going to tackle that this weekend so I'll have another question then, but first...

Do I need to replace the fuel selector switch with a 87 one?

[Rookiebuilder]

It's been a few years on this particular reply so we'll see if I get a reply

I'm working on a '67 C10 small window, short bed, fleet side truck. I dropped '93 5.7 TBI w/ 4l80e that came from a G3500 Vandura (it was free). The engine and tranny have been rebuilt to stock specs. I also have the fuse block, bulkhead connector, wiring harness and VSS buffer from the van and am using them. The only thing I using from the ’67 C10 is the original i/p cluster connector (12 pins).

Now I'm stuck and looking for some wiring help specific to my '67 Instrument Panel (I/P) Cluster Connector (12 pins) (the '93 I/P Cluster has 18 pins). The guy I bought the truck from already converted the I/P cluster connector to a gauge cluster when he has his Stroker 383 in it.

I do have the '93 electrical diagram and diagnosis manual (It's great) but the main problem I’m getting confused on is i/p cluster is NOT 12 pins (it’s 18) so it throws me all off. I’m stuck now wondering I shouldn’t have changed the fuse block and bulkhead connector.

I was told I should get a standalone harness to run the engine and tranny so I’m looking at doing that real soon; however, that does not fix my problem of figuring out where or how to wire some of the other wires. I have follow the wiring diagram for a V8 that’s floating around on the forum but I’m still not sure with the following wires go FROM the i/p cluster connector to the different parts (ie., Fuse Block, Engine, Ignition etc). Again, I have seen the 67-72 wiring diagrams but they don’t’ seem go to the same locations on my fuse block and I’m wondering if that’s because it’s a TBI.
• Temperature Gauge (20 Dark Green)
• Fuel Gauge (20 Tan)
• Fuel Gauge Fee (20 Pink)
• Brake Warning Lmp (20 Tan)
• Alternator (Black/Brwn)
• Terminal by Battery

I feel like if there was an adapter from a 12 pin to an 18 pin i/p cluster connector (and a few gauges changes to mechanical to electrical) I’d be in a lot better place. I’m sorry for rambling and I’d appreciate any help you might be able to provide. After all, there's a reason my login is Rookiebuilder.

Thanks for any insight anyone can provide.

Eric

[44th Miss Inf]

I’ll try to dig out my folder and add to this if interested. I repinned an 87, added wires, and used a 94-95 computer and added a 4L80 to a buddies truck.

[Rookiebuilder]

Please do!!!!! I'll take any and all information from you. I'm at a standstill until I figure this out. I appreciate it