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View Full Version : Swapping in a big block- how to?



Damon
04-17-2006, 08:55 AM
Hey, guys. Brand new to the board. I'm planning a street/performance build up on a late 80s/early 90s SWB 2WD truck that I plan to drop a mildly built 454 into (sort of my own version of the 454SS but with the power it should have had from the factory- around 500HP). I'm not a "truck guy" and, in fact, I've never owned a full size Chevy before, although I've turned wrenches for the last 20+ years. I just thought it would be a fun buildup, plus I like having some room to work around my engines and it seems like a big Chevy p/u would fit the bill. Kinda like working on an old Chevelle or something, but with that weird box on the back instead of rear seats and a trunk.

Motor's built, emissions are a non-concern, and I'm looking for a truck to start from right now (probably a small block V8 truck). But I need to physically drop this big block in without making stupid first-timer mistakes and without fabbing up a bunch of custom parts. Engine mounts, headers, accessory drive system- the big stuff. I need to get it right the first time without a bunch of trial-and-error and for as little money as possible without making it a "hack job."

I looked through the tech articles but didn't see anything specifically about this. Who's done this? Any advice wouold be much appreciated.

GreaseDog
04-17-2006, 02:48 PM
a big block donor truck is your best bet. if you're going 88-98, locate an 88-98 parts truck that came with a big block, and you should have everything you need to swap from the small block. i wouldnt rule out 4.3 trucks either.

Damon
04-18-2006, 01:33 PM
Would a big block truck necessarily be a heavy duty frame/chassis/etc.? I'm trying to keep weight within reason. I know these trucks aren't light to begin with but I don't want to start with any more handicap than necessary. In other words, not something that's built to the weight of a 2500 model or more. Something "standard" or "light" duty. I'm not hauling a heavy trailer with this. Just a little a$$.

RULINGCHAOS
04-18-2006, 07:34 PM
I as well want to do this, but mine is a 1984 chevy C10.

I will be watching this thread! Any help would be great.

GreaseDog
04-18-2006, 10:52 PM
454 SS trucks were just standard cab shorties, with a big block dumped in. nothing really special about them. if you get ahold of a factory big block truck, you can get all your motor mounts, accessory drive, radiator, and all other associated big block specific parts. no need to use the chassis or any of the suspension.