K5 Blazer Swap Questions

[C.I.Blazer]

I have been looking at engine/drivetrain options for my 71 Blazer and really like the idea of an LS swap for my intended use of the vehicle. I have been reading A TON on this forum as well as LS1Tech and must admit it is a lot to absorb. I think it is also challening because so many of the swap threads are on 2wd vehicles and many are very old. I know there must be a lot of new ways to make this swap easier.

I am trying to break down the project into 4 or 5 sections to help me get a handle on what needs to be done.

1) Physically fitting the motor and transmission into the vehicle with the appropriate mounts.

2) Providing a fuel system.

3) Purchase harness (more likely than reworking my own), engine wiring, and tuning the ECM. This would include DBW pedal.

4) Deal with all the accessories (e.g. alternator, water pump, headers / exhaust, air intake, radiator, power steering).

5) All the remaining miscellaneous items like gauges and ???

Does that seem about right?

I am tackling number 1 first and had some questions I am hoping for some help with. My goal is to leave the NP205 in the stock location and not have to redo any drivelines. In order to accomplish this I plan to use a 4l60e (currently has a TH350) and the Advance Adapters kit to mate them together. My understanding is that this should move the motor 1-2" forward.

To accommodate the engine moving, I plan to us either the Dirty Dingo (most likely) or Pacific Fabrication engine cross member and adjustable motor mounts. This should give me the space I need for the longer tranny but still leave me room for the water pump, fans, etc.

Does all this make sense? What am I missing or not thinking about.

Also, I am really having hard time finding a motor with under 200k miles on them. I am only searching up to 2006 because I have heard the gen 4 (LM7, LQ4, or LQ9) is an easier swap than the gen5. Any tips on where to look? Should I be looking for something newer?

Thanks for the help.