1985 ls swap - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Blake1999 · 01-13-2017, 07:06 PM

Hi I have a 1985 c10 that I'm putting a 5.3/4l60e in I have almost everything figured out just a few questions.

I am using dirty dingo mounts. Will the trans crossmember have to be modified to correct fitment for tranny or can it stay in stock place?

Also will I need to have the driveshaft modified or is it the right length and spline?

This truck has factory a/c and I would like to retain it where can I pull a vaccum source from to control the a/c?

What's the best way to set up the drive by wire in these trucks?

Those are a few questions I have so far thanks to anyone and everyone that can answer them!!

bbbc10 · 01-13-2017, 08:24 PM

gonna have to move trans crossmember an get new driveshaft and drive by wire u need the throttle pedal since its wire controlled throttle body

UKNOWME · 01-14-2017, 01:52 AM

Consider this....
https://m.facebook.com/TejasSteelWorks/

Mr.Chevy4x4 · 01-14-2017, 07:20 PM

If your truck had a 700r4, you won't have to move the crossmember or change the driveshaft. Straight bolt in. The dirty dingo mounts will allow you to put it in the right location.

The truck intake has an unused vacuum port you can use. I've attached a picture.

You can mount the dbw pedal assembly and make it work, or you can do a little fabrication and attach your original pedal to the electronic module for a factory look. Check out Glock's project Fred for the pedal info: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...light=5.3+swap

Here's a post I did on retaining A/C using the R4 compressor without spending an arm and a leg: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=724060

Mike

Blake1999 · 01-14-2017, 10:19 PM

Thanks for all the help guys is it possible to make it a drive by cable because I already have everything to set it up. Also I kind of want to put a mild cam in the 5.3l but I don't want to break the bank I called comp and they quoted me 1400 and I just can't spend that much what all would be needed for the cam swap and what is a good mild cam? Thanks again!

Blake1999 · 01-15-2017, 12:13 AM

Thanks for all the help guys is it possible to make it a drive by cable because I already have everything to set it up. Also I kind of want to put a mild cam in the 5.3l but I don't want to break the bank I called comp and they quoted me 1400 and I just can't spend that much what all would be needed for the cam swap and what is a good mild cam? Thanks again!

Mr.Chevy4x4 · 01-15-2017, 09:31 AM

It is possible to change it to a dbc setup. You will need to add wiring and connectors for the idle air control motor and throttle position sensor, change the throttle body, and deal with the software/pcm. Depending on the service number on your pcm it may or may not have the chipset to control the IAC motor. If not you will have to get a different PCM. If your pcm does have the correct hardware you will need to have the software changed to dbc. Here's good info on that: http://lt1swap.com/cable_conversion.htm

As far as the cam. Tons of options. Do some research. I personally like the Brian Tooley cams. I wouldn't go any bigger than the stage 2 truck cam of you're going to need to change the torque converter. You will need to change the springs while you are at it. Cam swap is easy on these engines. If you can do the work yourself you could do the cam, springs, and pushrods for around $700. But then you run into needing a dyno tune....so another $500-600. It all adds up.

Spend some time searching and reading, there is more info out there about all of this than you could ever imagine.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zzmg9RwgADk

Mike

UKNOWME · 01-15-2017, 01:44 PM

Do you already have the engine, harness and PCM?
You said you already have everything to set up DBC. What all do you have?

Blake1999 · 01-15-2017, 08:34 PM

I have an entire 2001 Tahoe I've pulled everything out already just wondering how to modify the cable and get it to run correctly and is it possible to put an ls3 intake on a 5.3? I have one laying around so I was thinking about throwing it on.

UKNOWME · 01-15-2017, 09:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blake1999

I have an entire 2001 Tahoe I've pulled everything out already just wondering how to modify the cable and get it to run correctly and is it possible to put an ls3 intake on a 5.3? I have one laying around so I was thinking about throwing it on.

So it's already DBC? I thought you were wanting to take a DBW setup and swap to DBC. You can use the LS3 intake but will need to make modifications to the pulley system and use a Camaro water pump.

*gmachinz* · 01-15-2017, 08:45 PM

You can also go the budget route by using a 6.0 cam, new springs and larger throttle body/upper intake by sourcing good used GM stuff....then you're still looking at a tune also.

junkman · 01-16-2017, 07:58 AM

If its already a cable motor, just use a lokar universal ls1 thottle cable, or head to the junkyard and pull one off some other newer gm vehicle that will be long enough. I think I have used the ones of a 96-98 vortec truck. I don't think your ls3 intake is going to work, ls3 is rectangle port, and your motor is cathedral port. 6.0 cam is going to be minimal difference, if not the same as what you have. You should be able to find a good used cam off the forums for $200-250, figure $175 for a good set of springs, and $100 for pushrods. could do something like a gm hotcam and would be fine on a set of cheap $70 ls6 springs and be ok on stock pushrods. Youll need a tune, but someone is going to have to be in the pcm anyway to delete the vatts anyway. You should be able to find a good mail order place that can fix you up with a good basic tune and delete everything in one swipe.

GRADYS Performance · 01-16-2017, 12:35 PM

@Blake1999, You have a private message.

**truckfan** · 01-16-2017, 12:41 PM

lurk

jimboh247 · 01-16-2017, 01:46 PM

Someday soon, I will be stating my '85 LS swap......someday

Blake1999 · 01-18-2017, 11:23 PM

Thanks guys I think I'll just order the lokar cable to make it pretty

. Also is it possible to connect the stock shift linkage to the 4l60e?

bbbc10 · 01-18-2017, 11:25 PM

Lokar makes a shift linkage that u will need

GRADYS Performance · 01-19-2017, 06:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blake1999

Also is it possible to connect the stock shift linkage to the 4l60e?

What transmission was originally in your truck and what shifter?

Blake1999 · 01-19-2017, 11:34 PM

Originally had a 700r4 and the column shift I would like to keep it like that but also want to put A shift know between the bucket seats. What all is involved either way I go?

GRADYS Performance · 01-20-2017, 09:38 AM

The 4L60E transmission is a direct bolt in for the TH700R4. Your column shifter will hook right up. If you want to put an aftermarket floor shifter in then installation will depend on the shifter. Most floor shifters are made for cars therefore the handle is not long enough for a truck. There are truck shifters or you would need to raise the mounting of a car shifter.

01-13-2017, 07:06 PM	#1
Blake1999 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Mansfield, Texas Posts: 34	1985 ls swap Hi I have a 1985 c10 that I'm putting a 5.3/4l60e in I have almost everything figured out just a few questions. I am using dirty dingo mounts. Will the trans crossmember have to be modified to correct fitment for tranny or can it stay in stock place? Also will I need to have the driveshaft modified or is it the right length and spline? This truck has factory a/c and I would like to retain it where can I pull a vaccum source from to control the a/c? What's the best way to set up the drive by wire in these trucks? Those are a few questions I have so far thanks to anyone and everyone that can answer them!! __________________ 1985 Chevy C10 1950 Chevy 3100

01-13-2017, 08:24 PM	#2
bbbc10 Diggin The SquareLife Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: garland,tx Posts: 1,933	Re: 1985 ls swap gonna have to move trans crossmember an get new driveshaft and drive by wire u need the throttle pedal since its wire controlled throttle body

01-14-2017, 01:52 AM	#3
UKNOWME Registered User Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Clovis, NM Posts: 2,705	Re: 1985 ls swap Consider this.... https://m.facebook.com/TejasSteelWorks/ __________________ 2018 Audi S5- wife's ride 1980 Chevy Scottsdale http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=543511 1981 Chevy Silverado- in pieces 1964 Chevy c10 2017 Jeep Wrangler JKU

01-14-2017, 07:20 PM	#4
Mr.Chevy4x4 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Sims, NC Posts: 531	Re: 1985 ls swap If your truck had a 700r4, you won't have to move the crossmember or change the driveshaft. Straight bolt in. The dirty dingo mounts will allow you to put it in the right location. The truck intake has an unused vacuum port you can use. I've attached a picture. You can mount the dbw pedal assembly and make it work, or you can do a little fabrication and attach your original pedal to the electronic module for a factory look. Check out Glock's project Fred for the pedal info: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...light=5.3+swap Here's a post I did on retaining A/C using the R4 compressor without spending an arm and a leg: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=724060 Mike Attached Images __________________ All things Chevy truck: 1986 SWB "Jolene" boosted 5.3/4l80e project

01-14-2017, 10:19 PM	#5
Blake1999 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Mansfield, Texas Posts: 34	Re: 1985 ls swap Thanks for all the help guys is it possible to make it a drive by cable because I already have everything to set it up. Also I kind of want to put a mild cam in the 5.3l but I don't want to break the bank I called comp and they quoted me 1400 and I just can't spend that much what all would be needed for the cam swap and what is a good mild cam? Thanks again! __________________ 1985 Chevy C10 1950 Chevy 3100

01-15-2017, 12:13 AM	#6
Blake1999 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Mansfield, Texas Posts: 34	Re: 1985 ls swap Thanks for all the help guys is it possible to make it a drive by cable because I already have everything to set it up. Also I kind of want to put a mild cam in the 5.3l but I don't want to break the bank I called comp and they quoted me 1400 and I just can't spend that much what all would be needed for the cam swap and what is a good mild cam? Thanks again! __________________ 1985 Chevy C10 1950 Chevy 3100

01-15-2017, 09:31 AM	#7
Mr.Chevy4x4 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Sims, NC Posts: 531	Re: 1985 ls swap It is possible to change it to a dbc setup. You will need to add wiring and connectors for the idle air control motor and throttle position sensor, change the throttle body, and deal with the software/pcm. Depending on the service number on your pcm it may or may not have the chipset to control the IAC motor. If not you will have to get a different PCM. If your pcm does have the correct hardware you will need to have the software changed to dbc. Here's good info on that: http://lt1swap.com/cable_conversion.htm As far as the cam. Tons of options. Do some research. I personally like the Brian Tooley cams. I wouldn't go any bigger than the stage 2 truck cam of you're going to need to change the torque converter. You will need to change the springs while you are at it. Cam swap is easy on these engines. If you can do the work yourself you could do the cam, springs, and pushrods for around $700. But then you run into needing a dyno tune....so another $500-600. It all adds up. Spend some time searching and reading, there is more info out there about all of this than you could ever imagine. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zzmg9RwgADk Mike __________________ All things Chevy truck: 1986 SWB "Jolene" boosted 5.3/4l80e project

01-15-2017, 01:44 PM	#8
UKNOWME Registered User Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Clovis, NM Posts: 2,705	Re: 1985 ls swap Do you already have the engine, harness and PCM? You said you already have everything to set up DBC. What all do you have? __________________ 2018 Audi S5- wife's ride 1980 Chevy Scottsdale http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=543511 1981 Chevy Silverado- in pieces 1964 Chevy c10 2017 Jeep Wrangler JKU

01-15-2017, 08:34 PM	#9
Blake1999 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Mansfield, Texas Posts: 34	Re: 1985 ls swap I have an entire 2001 Tahoe I've pulled everything out already just wondering how to modify the cable and get it to run correctly and is it possible to put an ls3 intake on a 5.3? I have one laying around so I was thinking about throwing it on. __________________ 1985 Chevy C10 1950 Chevy 3100

01-15-2017, 08:45 PM	#11
gmachinz Account Suspended Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Des Moines, IA. Posts: 4,143	Re: 1985 ls swap You can also go the budget route by using a 6.0 cam, new springs and larger throttle body/upper intake by sourcing good used GM stuff....then you're still looking at a tune also.

01-16-2017, 07:58 AM	#12
junkman Registered User Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: metropolis il Posts: 91	Re: 1985 ls swap If its already a cable motor, just use a lokar universal ls1 thottle cable, or head to the junkyard and pull one off some other newer gm vehicle that will be long enough. I think I have used the ones of a 96-98 vortec truck. I don't think your ls3 intake is going to work, ls3 is rectangle port, and your motor is cathedral port. 6.0 cam is going to be minimal difference, if not the same as what you have. You should be able to find a good used cam off the forums for $200-250, figure $175 for a good set of springs, and $100 for pushrods. could do something like a gm hotcam and would be fine on a set of cheap $70 ls6 springs and be ok on stock pushrods. Youll need a tune, but someone is going to have to be in the pcm anyway to delete the vatts anyway. You should be able to find a good mail order place that can fix you up with a good basic tune and delete everything in one swipe.

01-16-2017, 12:35 PM	#13
GRADYS Performance Registered User Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Columbus, Oh Posts: 367	Re: 1985 ls swap @Blake1999, You have a private message.

01-16-2017, 12:41 PM	#14
truckfan Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Lawrence KS Posts: 821	Re: 1985 ls swap lurk __________________ 1981 Chevy C30 440 Holmes 42K one owner miles

01-16-2017, 01:46 PM	#15
jimboh247 Registered User Join Date: May 2011 Location: Lexington, NC Posts: 157	Re: 1985 ls swap Someday soon, I will be stating my '85 LS swap......someday __________________ '85 SWB Silverado

01-18-2017, 11:23 PM	#16
Blake1999 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Mansfield, Texas Posts: 34	Re: 1985 ls swap Thanks guys I think I'll just order the lokar cable to make it pretty. Also is it possible to connect the stock shift linkage to the 4l60e? __________________ 1985 Chevy C10 1950 Chevy 3100



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01-18-2017, 11:25 PM	#17
bbbc10 Diggin The SquareLife Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: garland,tx Posts: 1,933	Re: 1985 ls swap Lokar makes a shift linkage that u will need

01-19-2017, 11:34 PM	#19
Blake1999 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Mansfield, Texas Posts: 34	Re: 1985 ls swap Originally had a 700r4 and the column shift I would like to keep it like that but also want to put A shift know between the bucket seats. What all is involved either way I go? __________________ 1985 Chevy C10 1950 Chevy 3100

01-20-2017, 09:38 AM	#20
GRADYS Performance Registered User Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Columbus, Oh Posts: 367	Re: 1985 ls swap The 4L60E transmission is a direct bolt in for the TH700R4. Your column shifter will hook right up. If you want to put an aftermarket floor shifter in then installation will depend on the shifter. Most floor shifters are made for cars therefore the handle is not long enough for a truck. There are truck shifters or you would need to raise the mounting of a car shifter.

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