LQ4 Swap into my '76

[SquarebodyFarmer]

I have a '76 K20 GMC Sierra Grande. It has a 292 in it, but it has blown up for the second time and now I am thinking it's time for a change. I have been looking at LS swaps and that got me thinking about putting in a 6.0 Vortec and the 5 speed manual transmission. Is this something that is possible? I know I could put in the 4L80, but my truck is currently a manual, and thought it would be neat to have a modern manual.

 

[eskimomann209]

It’s possible. what 5 speed?
Probably only thing that will survive that’s not an expensive TKO or similar is the NV4500.
but there is a TON of info on these builds.

 

[SquarebodyFarmer]

Ya that's what I was thinking, I've just never done anything on that new of stuff. I'm guessing it is similar to the LS swap stuff, and besides the electronics it doesn't look that bad.

 

[Blackbeard44]

It is really not that hard to do, it just takes time.
I swapped a K20, it can be tricky finding a T-case with a VSS, but even if you cannot there is parts that will make a cable driven speedo electric.

walboro makes a good fuel pump that can mount on the frame, factory corvette fuel filter has a regulator.

motor mounts convert easily.

you dont need a special radiator, LS motors cool very efficiently

there is all the info you need on this site, if you get stuck just ask.

Swapping my truck has been the best thing I have ever done, plenty of power, good mileage, and very reliable

 

[Madhorn]

I did a similar swap in my 77 K10. 5.3 and NV4500. Over all it was not that difficult, just time consuming. There is a ton of info on the net and in multiple post here. In the end I am thrilled with how mine turned out.

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[RoryH19]

It is really not that hard to do, it just takes time.
I swapped a K20, it can be tricky finding a T-case with a VSS, but even if you cannot there is parts that will make a cable driven speedo electric.

walboro makes a good fuel pump that can mount on the frame, factory corvette fuel filter has a regulator.

motor mounts convert easily.

you dont need a special radiator, LS motors cool very efficiently

there is all the info you need on this site, if you get stuck just ask.

Swapping my truck has been the best thing I have ever done, plenty of power, good mileage, and very reliable

Do you need the VSS if he goes 5 speed. When I swapped my k5 I used a NP241c from a 90 burb but I have a 4L65e trans.

 

[RoryH19]

I did a similar swap in my 77 K10. 5.3 and NV4500. Over all it was not that difficult, just time consuming. There is a ton of info on the net and in multiple post here. In the end I am thrilled with how mine turned out.

You must be registered for see images attach

You reminded me I need to finalize my AC setup. I think I asked before but what did you use for the compressor, bracket and AC lines? I have a LS 6.0 (LQ9).
I could go with the R4 setup (would only need a bracket) but really want a Sanden.

 

[Blackbeard44]

I used a 241C from a surburban as well, but they are getting difficult to find these days at a reasonable price, If I was to do again I would just used a dakota digital adapter

 

[Madhorn]

You reminded me I need to finalize my AC setup. I think I asked before but what did you use for the compressor, bracket and AC lines? I have a LS 6.0 (LQ9).
I could go with the R4 setup (would only need a bracket) but really want a Sanden.

As far as the AC part of this project goes, here are some details. When I had the dash apart with the heater box and evaporator removed the heater core and evaporator were replaced when it went back together. This means everything in the AC will be new. Here is rest of the part list. All parts with exception of the belt were ordered from Summit. Belt came from Autozone.
AC bracket ICT 551494x-3
Belt tensioner Continental 49296
Belt 114.3" Duralast 1143k6
AC condenser kit VA 021573
AC hose kit VA 547001
AC compressor VA 047007
AC presser switch VA 11086-vus

 

[RoryH19]

As far as the AC part of this project goes, here are some details. When I had the dash apart with the heater box and evaporator removed the heater core and evaporator were replaced when it went back together. This means everything in the AC will be new. Here is rest of the part list. All parts with exception of the belt were ordered from Summit. Belt came from Autozone.
AC bracket ICT 551494x-3
Belt tensioner Continental 49296
Belt 114.3" Duralast 1143k6
AC condenser kit VA 021573
AC hose kit VA 547001
AC compressor VA 047007
AC presser switch VA 11086-vus

Thanks.
Right, all parts will be new when I'm finished too.
Ok, I see for the AC hose you bought a kit with multiple ends/tubes and the compressor is a 709.

 

[TPISly-C10]

same here (but 4L80E) just love it! a facebook group help me a lot for LS swap!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/267895843406925

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[Craig Nedrow]

Have an LQ4 with a 4l80e, going in the 64 nova. Great motor if you want to turbo as lower compression. Stage two cam some tuning and fast to. Richard Holdener is a prolific producer of LS videos, a respected and hard workin' man. Go here, just one of many vids on LS related stuff.

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