79 CC C-30. Ls swap or redo big block?

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Jrgunn5150

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The factory 5.3 ECM will run a 4L80e, as will the factory harness.

But I have to agree, typically the best engine is the one you already have. I find LS engines underwhelming in 3/4 ton and 1 ton platforms, which is why my 2003 has a big block lol.
 

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If im gonna freshen up the big block, it will get a new cam & lifters.

What cams have yall used with success? Its gonna be a tow pig. So low end torque is priority.

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4WDKC

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heres a twist, if you were willing to do all the work to ls swap it, why not swap in a 96+ 454 or 8.1 with the factory efi and a 4l80 now you have the best of both worlds.
 

beest

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heres a twist, if you were willing to do all the work to ls swap it, why not swap in a 96+ 454 or 8.1 with the factory efi and a 4l80 now you have the best of both worlds.
If i could find one locally that was reasonable i would. Ive already put a 5.3 im my k10.

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1987 GMC Jimmy

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I vote big block even though you already decided. I think the Vortec 7400 or 8100 idea holds merit, too.
 

4WDKC

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Its also hard justify buying a 700$ trans controller when i can buy entire ls setup for 500$.

Also just found this.

https://indianapolis.craigslist.org/pts/d/02-81l-160k-complete-for-swap/6495698559.html


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buy the 0411 ecm and have it flashed to work only as a transmission controller. I can buy them for $35 at local junkyard.

As for the 8.1 they are hard to find and never cheap. I would plan for a vortec 454 then, easier to find swap the cam, timing set, tune and go pull stuff.
 

beest

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buy the 0411 ecm and have it flashed to work only as a transmission controller. I can buy them for $35 at local junkyard.

As for the 8.1 they are hard to find and never cheap. I would plan for a vortec 454 then, easier to find swap the cam, timing set, tune and go pull stuff.
Ill look into using the 0411 pcm for a transmission controller. Thats new info for me. [emoji57] [emoji106]

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