Accrdwgnguy

Just so you know, the stock VSS on your chevy T-case will work just fine, it should have a standard 40-pulse output that is recognized by the LS PCM. The LS PCM then was a 1 wire 4k PPM output you can use to run a speedo, either stock or aftermarket.

Speaking of gauges, if you need to save a few bucks, go out to the u-pull and find a gauge cluster you like out of any early to mid 90's GM car or truck. For the most part, they accept the same signals as the LS PCM puts out and are typically simple to wire standalone. I like the 93-96 Camaro cluster personally, full compliment of numbered gauges with 80 PSI oil gauge, and fits into narrow dashboards. Use the 3-wire coolant temp sensor (Standard TX111) for a coolant temp signal. Not sure how the fuel gauge will work out with the jeep sender tho...so thats an issue. But much cheaper than spending $500 on autometers

Johnfire

I was hoping the one from the chevy transfer case was good enough. Is there a way to verify what the pulse rate is on it. or does it have to be torn down for that?

I hadn't thought of pulling the cluster from a car. That is a pretty good idea, at least till I decide what to do for gauges in the future. I'll just bend whatever I need to make a new dash for that setup.

Also I am having a hard time finding if the tranfer case uses bolts or studs to mount to the tail housing. I will get pics up today hopefully of everything that is going on.

Accrdwgnguy

Well, all GM's from the beginning of the electronic speedometer era (around 88-89) to at least the end of the gen 3 run used the 40 pulse VSS. So it's a safe bet it's the same.

Johnfire

Ok, thank you, I definately appreciate it.

Accrdwgnguy

No problem. You actually got me wanting another Cherokee now, this is a great solution to the garbage Chrysler electronics and the gas-sucking 4.0L.

Johnfire

Sorry for the delay, been a little sidetracked. I have the 8.8 pretty much all put together. Welded the axle tubes to the pumpkin as recommended on other sites. Also tacked my motor mount into place, just waiting to pressure wash the engine first. I still have to find some studs for the transfer case yet, then I can get it all put together, and in. Tommorrow looks like a trip to the autoparts store to see what they have.

artate78

I used c5 manifolds on my 5.3 yj swap. And my jeep is a 87 I used a cluster out of a 95 yj and speedo tac and all gauges work fine

Johnfire

Long delay, but had some problems waiting on a few parts that UPS lost and then apparently found. Going to try and post some pics finally. Finally set the engine into place and connected the transmission and transfer case. I am surprised how short the rear drive shaft is going to be, and how long the front one will be. I have placed the engine according to Novak's recommendation, and had the scoot the engine back using the adjustment hole. This had to be done so the exhaust manifolds will clear the engine mount, which they do just barely. The exhaust manifolds are for an LS3. Also finally took the wiring harness off, and labeled as I went. Just have to figure out what needs to be stripped off of it.

Johnfire

This is when I found the jeep 2 years ago in a junk yard. It has a clean title since it had come in for a blown engine. Unfortunately they took the drivetrain, and steering column.

Johnfire

After 2 year the other guy that bought it first from the junkyard never got around to fixing it up. I made him an offer a few times and he finally took it. My original plan was to drop the 6 cylinder xj motor he had into it. Seeing there was more support for the 5.3l I changed my mind

Johnfire

The previous owner had stripped it down to the frame and axles, so that is where I am starting. The body is still at his house since I don't have room for it here yet. Had some rust problems with the transmission skid/mount plate. Decided to cut them out and weld in new nuts welded to plate.

Johnfire

The motor is out of an 04 Avalanche 5.3L.



Transmission is out of a 2006 1500 4L60E.



Tranfer case is out of a 91 S10 NP231



Exhaust manifolds are from ebay listed for an LS3.



Had to get an adapter since the transfer case was 5 bolt compared the newer ones which are 6 bolt.



Ford 8.8 axle from a local u-pick it yard it has 4.10 gears, I think it came out to around $110. Changed the axle and pinion seals, along with new parking brakes.

Johnfire

Swapping out the rear axle.

Johnfire

Finally got to set the engine and everything in. Definately need to work on getting the rear drive shaft cut, and a longer front drive shaft. Can't believe how short the rear one is.

Johnfire

I have to see about getting the body over to at least check clearance. Not sure how low the transmission and transfer case is supposed to sit since I never had a cross member for them to sit on and never saw how the original ones sat.

ctd450

iTrader: (1)

You're probably aware of this but you will definitely need a slipyoke eliminator for that transfer case. The ones that fit the Jeep cases will also fit the S-10 case.

Johnfire

Happy Independence Day!

Still trying to figure out why the need for a SYE, been trying to do the research on them now since someone had mentioned it when I first started my build. Everything I find states that if you intend to lift the vehicle it might need a SYE but not unlifted. I don't want to spend almost $400 for a SYE and not have needed it since I have no plans of lifting this vehicle.

Seems like a mixed review on if you can use a jeep one since then you are changing your speedo setup back to jeep vss, which then I would have to buy something to change it to the chevy signal so the motor and trans work right. This is just from all of my research. So if I used a cheaper jeep SYE I would be shelling out more money for something to change the VSS signal. Or spend almost $400 on a chevy sye, or if I don't need one just leave it as is and not be out alot of money.

I agree that a SYE would be nice to have, just kinda hard to justify spending $400 if it isn't necessary.

Again, I just keep getting mixed info on alot of stuff and sometimes it is tough sorting it all out.

Johnfire

Slow progress waiting on getting the body here so I can set the drivetrain, and progress with setting everything else. Still looking at different radiator and hose setups. Also exhaust flanges as well to so I can move right into that part of my build when I am there.

dvdswan

looking good.

Johnfire

The body is setting on the frame so I can make sure that the drivetrain clears. Looks good so far, just have to make the transmission mount crossmember. From there, hopefully have the drive shafts done, weld the axle up, and mount it all in for good. Then the next big thing to tackle is the exhaust then wiring. Definately could use some good infot when I get to the exhaust and wiring part. I want to make this a dual cat and exhaust setup, just not sure on the sensor setup, and which cats would be good. I found some on ebay for about $70 they seem to fit in a pretty small area from Thunderbolt.