Largest engine for a 82 4w?

[THEKickAssYotaMan]

I found an old truck that has almost rust free! Sitting in some guys yard. It's hard to believe this truck is in such great shape, well I can probably snag it for $200, the reason so cheap is because the tranny and engine are shot. Well they are sitting in the bed of the truck, so are they shot? We don't know but good? No. So I have another truck with a fine 22RE and I love that engine/truck, but this one is going to be a beater and it needs REAL power. I am good friends with a guy who is really good at fab work and will help me mount an engine. From the looks of the engine, (20R) it's very small and fit's nice a snug inside of the the engine bay, so what will fit in that damn little whole? Please help me out here....

Kick Ass!

[fourwd1]

If you're asking what to swap in to this truck, a Buick 3.8 or a Chevy 4.3 fit great (although the 4.3 is a little tight at the firewall.) A 350 is also a fairly common swap, and it too is alittle tight.

[THEKickAssYotaMan]

So what out of the three engines are best? I was going to go with a 350 but thought there has to be something out there stronger then that. I do not know too much about engine swaps, except that I can do it with no labor costs. Could you tell me more about the engines??? -thanks a lot,

Kick Ass

[fourwd1]

But what about parts costs ?

Basics you'll need:

1) engine
2) engine mounts
3) tranny
4) t_case adapter
5) radiator, hoses, etc
6) beef up front suspension
7) redo drive shafts

and all sorts of other misc BS

Figure around $2K, cheaper if you can get stuff free.


The Chevy 4.3 is probably the most popular right now, and has the best availability of engines and adapters.

[THEKickAssYotaMan]

Thanks for the info, another question... if you don't mind answering;

If I got the Chevy 4.3 what is the best tranny you would reccomend? I have some great junk yards around and friends who can get ahold of anything. I've heard most of them are Automatic and that's a big fat NO! I'm looking for the most power that I can fit into this truck and the most raw sound that will come out of it.

Thanks again,
Kick Ass

[iluvdrt]

i had a buddy that had a 4.3 in his 88. he hated it and ended up swapping it out for a 383 stroker, roller cam'ed engine. it was bad. he had it mated to a th350, but if you wanted a stick, i would only recomend 1 trans. the sm465, with a 205/203 t-case. that would be bomb proof.