Engine/Trans selection for swap
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 118
Likes: 4
Engine/Trans selection for swap I've searched and haven't exactly found the answer to my question. I just picked up an 83 k5 Blazer 4x4 with a tired diesel and am looking to do a 5.3 or 6.0 swap. I've read about swapping transfer cases etc but would like to find the cleanest, simplest, and cheapest combination. What would be the best engine/trans package to pick up? I was thinking trying to find a complete take out of a 2500 4x4 with the transfer case (assuming it's on the passenger side). Any advice or recommendations? I've done a few swaps before, but haven't done anything 4wd before.
Thanks!
Thanks!
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 22,291
Likes: 3,615
From: Central Cal.
Do a little espionage work first. Actually look at late trucks to see if the transfer case is on the correct side. IF it is, then a nice LQ4/4L80E/transfer case might be what you need.
the easiest, most reliable combo would be whatever gen 3 motor suits you, and an 80e trans with an npc241 passenger side drop. it's robust and common.
unless you wanna get into big tires and serious off road stuff the stock 10 bolt front will hold up to most mild combos
unless you wanna get into big tires and serious off road stuff the stock 10 bolt front will hold up to most mild combos
