swap motor, or chassis?

[DetroitDan]

Havent been really happy with my 82 crew since I put it on the road. I miss my diesel, and I really hate three speed automatics, particularly when it's sitting behind a gas hog of a motor. The 454 runs good but is just too thirsty, even for me. I've thought about swapping in a 6.2 or a 6.5. The 6.2 would obviously be simpler, in fact a cucv donor truck might give me everything I want (thinking about changing axles out too). But, while I like the 6.2 it's not terribly powerful, it would need some help if it was going to be fun to drive and able to pull my camper. A 6.5 turbo would be cool, and could probably find one with a 4l80e, but all the electronics are another added headache. A 6.2 with a 6.5 turbo scabbed onto it might be another option.

Thinking about all this made me wonder; what if I had a 94-99-ish crewcab 4wd donor truck? Could I set my 82 body and box onto it? A body lift with some fabbed mounts to fit the frame to body mounts wouldn't be too awful hard. Stuff like the steering I dont know anything about. I guess the most important thing would be the wheelbase. But I know the computer is going to require the newer speedometer and wheelspeed sensors..

What do you think? I'd sure like to have a turbo diesel, losing the th400 would be a plus. I actually had better luck with my 97 1 ton IFS front axle than I've had with this Dana 60, so I wouldn't miss that. Lifting it is a problem, compared to what I've already got.

Maybe I'd be better off using a donor cucv for everything, keeping my frame, lift and body altogether. I guess a turbo'd 6.2 would probably pull my camper, and they're pretty good on fuel so living with the th400 wouldn't be so bad.

I did roam around the builds threads for awhile, but didn't see too much that applies to what I want to do. I dont have the budget for a Duramax or 6.0 swap, and I don't like 5.9 Cummins motors.