1987 Chev R20 Detroit Diesel Swap

[82ChevK20]

Hi guys, I have 1987 Chevy R20 that I was thinking about doing a diesel swap on cureently it has a 350 but I was looking at some detroit diesel 2 strokes like the 6v53 or the 4-53 I just had a few questions like how much work would it be, would the suspension have to be modified, and what kind of transmission would fit

Thanks

 

[Chuckd84]

I looked into that idea many years ago but decided it was too much work. It would take alot of custom fitting for coolers, linkage, and plumbing. I remember there were adapters for the nv4500 trans that came in the dodge trucks though. I just opted to buy a diesel truck and keep my square a gasser

 

[Turbo4whl]

So, many of the Detroit 2 stroke engines would have one of several SAE standard bell patterns. Adapters to the GM trans bell are available.

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Best and cheapest would be find an engine with the trans still attached. One of the most common SAE bell is #3.

Check this site:

SAE bellhousing info

 

[bucket]

I've wanted to do a 6V71 swap for several years, but it is very much uncharted territory for me. I've got enough projects going that I know how to complete... the last thing I need right now is a project that I don't know how to complete. If you want to do such a swap, it'd be much appreciated if you posted step by step details along the way

 

[Turbo4whl]

I've wanted to do a 6V71 swap for several years, but it is very much uncharted territory for me. I've got enough projects going that I know how to complete... the last thing I need right now is a project that I don't know how to complete. If you want to do such a swap, it'd be much appreciated if you posted step by step details along the way

If I spot a good priced 6V71, I'll let you know. Those old green leakers don't rev very high, but they sure do have torque!

 

[Turbo4whl]

@87ChevR20 Hey Gabe, here's one for you:

You must be registered for see images attach

https://saginaw.craigslist.org/hvo/d/ubly-diesel-engines/7672119903.html

 

[bucket]

If I spot a good priced 6V71, I'll let you know. Those old green leakers don't rev very high, but they sure do have torque!

I've actually got access to a pair of them. I'd just have to make an offer on the pair of old JD cubers that they are in.