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11-05-2019, 10:44 PM | #1 |
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Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Someone at a shop wants my big block and trans from my 1970 swb 2wd.
He offered me a decent amount for my big block and trans and I am thinking I would drive the truck way more with a reliable turn key ls motor. But I am worried about costs and how much more I would have to come up with. I have been reading a lot of threads in this Ls sub forum but I am still lost on how much it may cost. Can anyone give any input on the easiest way to do the swap (other than the GM cruise and connect systems that are about 15k????
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1970 Shortbed 2wd C-10 |
11-05-2019, 10:59 PM | #2 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
There are a LOT of variables here. This is how mine went. I found an LS1 with T56 six speed for $2500. I sold my BB and trans for $3000. As far as getting it in and running I probably spent a bit more than the $500 I made. I then decided on Vintage Air and Dakota Digital- ~ $2500 for both. SO it really depends on what you can find and exactly how you want it. All said and done I’m Very Happy I did this. I drive it Way more and really enjoy it.
Just my 2c, Good Luck
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1970 CST LS 1 6 speed Ford 9 inch Detroit Tru Track, Dakota Didgital, Vintage Air, QA1 Coil Overs Front & Rear Lots of FUN 2013 GMC PU, Oldest Son 71 GMC LWB. QA1 Suspension, Angry SB. Youngest Son 2019 GMC Diesil Dually. Youngest Son 2017 Toyota SUV Daughters car 2018 Traverse , Wife’s Ride Pittsburg Ca 94565 |
11-06-2019, 12:03 AM | #3 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Thanks for the input. I guess I am just scared of the extra unknown stuff I will need to do the swap. I already have a Boyd’s aluminum tank and have the in take assembly and fuel lines I was going to use to put in the Holley sniper. I have the sniper just sitting on the shelf waiting to install that I guess I could sell if I do the swap and recover some of the money.
Then would need headers, motor mounts, figure out radiator if my existing big lock radiator wouldn’t work, and electronics like harness/computer as well as gauges.
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1970 Shortbed 2wd C-10 |
11-06-2019, 02:04 AM | #4 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
I’m in it about $2500 for 5.3 and 4l60e and e fan. I still need to shorten drive shaft and new mufflers. Another $500. New under dash Ac next year will be about another $700.
Subtract $400 for the old engine and transmission. Time wise it took way more than expected waiting for parts. Also lots of trial and error figuring out the engine mounts so I could save money. I probably pulled the engine and transmission 5 times. If I were to do it again, I’d buy a good kit(motor mount, transmission crossmember) from a reputable manufacturer. Last edited by prodjay10; 11-06-2019 at 02:21 AM. |
11-06-2019, 09:13 AM | #5 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Depending how how much u can do an easy figure is 2k to 4k for a basic drop in 5.3 and trans i
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David fuller Ase Certified Mechanic Click here to help support our board!! 1971 Chevy c-10 under going a 4.8l LSx swap Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=421305 2007 Honda Accord my daily 145kmiles 2002 Honda Accord 4 door With 330k(sisters car) 2005 toyota Avalon 228k( brothers car) 2002 Sububran 5.3 245k 2000 Tahoe 5.3l 378 General manager for Marco's Carwash & lube |
11-06-2019, 10:06 AM | #6 | |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Quote:
If it needs work, you could easily spend another $2000. A buddy of mine did just that after he bought a used LS engine and auto trans. And he still needs to have the transmission gone through. Just this week, he asked me if we should just drop in a 383 and Tremec TKO 600 and be done. Turns out he has both of those sitting on a shelf (yes, a very heavy duty shelf!) waiting to go into another project car. I have no doubt an LS engine will make much more power than a comparable size Gen I small block. But I'm not sure you should assume they are more reliable. Seems to me that all the electronics (especially aftermarket) have the potential to make things less reliable and more difficult to troubleshoot. Just my two cents worth.
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Mike 1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 35 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, recent AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes. 1982 C10 SWB -- sold 1981 C10 Silverado LWB -- sold, but wish I still had it! 1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming. Retired as a factory automation products salesman. Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop. Member here for 24 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then! |
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11-06-2019, 10:37 AM | #7 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
It's easy to go down a rabbit hole doing an LS swap, but worth it in my opinion. It will nickel and dime you for sure though. It's not as simple as buying a dropout engine/trans and turning the key - there are systems that have to be modified or updated to work with the LS - electrical, fuel, coolant, brakes, gauges, AC. If you can get good money for your big block and don't mind spending $6k or more, go for it.
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1964 Chevy C10 - Gen IV 5.3 Restomod http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=768632 1968 GMC C15 - Gen III 6.0 Restomod http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=772047 1969 Chevy C10 - Restoration http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=809184 1978 Chevy Scottsdale K20 1993 Chevy C1500 - 5.3/T56 swapped 2008 Silverado Duramax |
11-06-2019, 11:26 AM | #8 | |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Quote:
Have to say this: A couple months ago I attended "C10s in the Park", a huge show show for 47-87 trucks in Waxahachie, TX. Just a wild ass guess, but I'd say at least 1/3 of the trucks had LS engines. Some looked totally stock, some with aftermarket intakes, a few with carbs, and others turbocharged. Think I even saw one with an LSA engine. I think this one is super-clean.
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Mike 1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 35 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, recent AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes. 1982 C10 SWB -- sold 1981 C10 Silverado LWB -- sold, but wish I still had it! 1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming. Retired as a factory automation products salesman. Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop. Member here for 24 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then! |
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11-06-2019, 11:36 AM | #9 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
The biggest factor is something you didn't mention, whether or not you are going to do it yourself or have a shop do it. If you are crafty and can do all your own work, or the majority of it, then you can do a swap pretty reasonably, however, if you have to pay someone, then expect it to get expensive in a hurry.
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My '72 short bed build. http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/conver...6-0-4l80e.html 5.3 swap into my RUSTY '71 C10 http://ls1tech.com/forums/conversion...71-c-10-a.html |
11-06-2019, 11:48 AM | #10 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Good point ls1nova71.
What I should have mentioned also is that you can't have the expectation that you will get a dropout unit off eBay and that it will be perfect. Mine showed up with a lot of rust and corrosion as if it was sitting in the elements for months. I ended up painting the block, replacing the water pump, sandblasting and painting the alternator/power steering bracket, as well as replacing a couple sensors that were broken. Insist on good pictures of the engine before buying so you know what you're getting. If you end up with a decent dropout, you still have to replace plugs, wires, water pump, knock sensors, intake gasket, exhaust manifolds/gaskets, tensioner pulley, idler pulley, etc. as good measure and those costs add up. Not trying to talk you out of it, just want you to have realistic expectations.
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1964 Chevy C10 - Gen IV 5.3 Restomod http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=768632 1968 GMC C15 - Gen III 6.0 Restomod http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=772047 1969 Chevy C10 - Restoration http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=809184 1978 Chevy Scottsdale K20 1993 Chevy C1500 - 5.3/T56 swapped 2008 Silverado Duramax |
11-06-2019, 12:02 PM | #11 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Nice thread here. Lots of opinions and advice, and no name-calling.
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Mike 1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 35 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, recent AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes. 1982 C10 SWB -- sold 1981 C10 Silverado LWB -- sold, but wish I still had it! 1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming. Retired as a factory automation products salesman. Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop. Member here for 24 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then! |
11-06-2019, 05:04 PM | #12 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
A buddy of mine will be helping me do the swap. He is a master tech and has been doing motor builds and swaps for probably 30 years. He has built a number of ls engines over the last few years. It is how he makes money so I have to pay him some. But nothing like a shop.
I was offered 6k for my big block and trans. So it sounds like I can probably at least break even.
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1970 Shortbed 2wd C-10 |
11-06-2019, 06:13 PM | #13 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
I’ve learned a bunch doing most of this myself. I did ask a mechanic for help when I got stuck and had to pay him, but next time I’ll be able to tackle this myself. It has also helped my confidence level in other mechanical or electrical issues on my other cars.
If you have the time, try it yourself and when you get stuck ask your buddy for help. |
11-06-2019, 06:42 PM | #14 | |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Quote:
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1964 Chevy C10 - Gen IV 5.3 Restomod http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=768632 1968 GMC C15 - Gen III 6.0 Restomod http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=772047 1969 Chevy C10 - Restoration http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=809184 1978 Chevy Scottsdale K20 1993 Chevy C1500 - 5.3/T56 swapped 2008 Silverado Duramax |
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11-06-2019, 09:46 PM | #15 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Yep. It has lots of goodies on it. No where near stock.
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1970 Shortbed 2wd C-10 |
11-07-2019, 07:56 AM | #16 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
With the new holley stuff that is working its way out the engine mounting seems like it just got a bit easier. I have been looking at it for my swap. With what you got offered I would do the swap. Looks like you have a good guy to help out so thats even better.
Jimmy
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60 to 66 Chevy and GMC window decals http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=661131 Good friends, good food and a hotrod what else do you need? 1966 BBW long fleet Daily driver 1965 BBW short fleet Sold and going to a good home 1965 Suburban 2003 3500 Duramax 2005 Ultra Classic |
11-07-2019, 09:25 AM | #17 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
I was looking at the Holley systems too. I think it is the terminator x max or something like that. If you get the most feature rich model it can do drive by wire or cable, trans control, it can handle power adders, etc. it does seem like a really cool setup and potentially easier for sure.
On my list for sure.
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1970 Shortbed 2wd C-10 |
11-07-2019, 09:25 AM | #18 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Theres 2 schools of though on this subject.... LS or dont..
If you were starting with a truck with no drivetrain, then LS would be a no brainer..to me Theres probably not much difference in cost in your choice at that point Already having a running, driving truck with a sb or bb changes the thought process some.. But if you can get primo $$ for your bb I'd say go for it...a LS install is very simple and I dont get the exorbant prices that are charged for doing them..with a set of adapters they will drop right in just like any other engine....yes theres wiring and computer but that's not to difficult either.. I saw the other day where a shop charges a minimum of 15k to do a swap...and that's with a used engine...I just dont get it.. On my C30 LQ9 install I did I think I'm right under 3k on just the engine part On my IH LM7 Install I'm going over that but I've made a few changes to this one and lucked up on a very low mileage engine which cost more from the start
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11-07-2019, 02:34 PM | #19 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
I went 5.3/4L80E - I got the 5.3 for free (and the donor vehicle)
Now, I purchased a new harness vs. having one reworked or reworking one myself. I also purchased a trans crossmember that was for ease of use, but I am right at $2300 into my swap, including the purchase of a 2WD 4L80E ($600.) I've kept track of every nut/bolt/etc that I've purchased, and even tools I had to purchase for the swap. I'd do it again, even if a few times I've been frustrated. I'm near running/driving status now, finally... and I would have spent at least that much if not more on a refreshed 350 + rebuilding my TH350. |
11-08-2019, 09:05 AM | #20 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
This is my detail, you could definitely do it cheaper but this may have some items you are not considering. What can get very expensive is lines and fittings (fuel and clutch line for me).
LS Swap Speedo Swap Template 30 Chevytrucks Speedo Box 54 Chevytrucks 96' S-10 Speedo 35 Ebay Gas Tank/Straps 131 Summit Wrangler Fuel Filler 17 LKQ Gas Cap 12 Autozone Sending Unit 33 Autozone Gas Tank Hardware 28 Tractor Supply Gas Tank Hardware 26 Home Depot Gas Tank Hardware 8 Lowes Gas Tank Hardware 6 Napa Gas Tank Hardware 13 Autozone Fuel Hose 2 O'Reilly Gas Tank Hose 17 Advance Fuel Line/Fittings 35 Autozone Gas Tank Line/HW 37 Advance Fuel Line/Fittings 88 Jegs Trans Crossmember 54 Jegs Dirty Dingo Mounts 158 Dirty Dingo C10 Clutch Pedal 15 Rossmans LS Swap Headers 295 Speed Eng LS Airbox 24 LKQ Mass Air Flow Sensor 34 LKQ LS Intake Manifold 29 LKQ Paint 10 Walmart Paint 16 Autozone GM Muscle Car Oil Pan 230 Jegs Header Flanges 8 Jegs EVAP Plate 11 Ebay Clutch Master Cyl 64 Speedway Clutch Line/Fittings 48 Speedway Clutch Bleeder 27 Speedway EP381 Fuel Pump 65 Rock Auto NV3500 Trans 825 Jordan Auto Shifter 50 Jordan Auto Driveshaft 75 Jordan Auto Header Paint 11 Autozone Clutch Fitting 5 Ebay Throwout Bearing 39 Rock Auto Clutch Kit 160 Rock Auto Flywheel 65 Rock Auto Trans Mount 7 Rock Auto Trans Bolts 10 Ebay Clutch Pedal Pad 6 Summit Flywheel Bolts 21 Ebay Clutch Bolts 9 Ebay OP Gauge Fitting 20 Speedway Trans Paint 7 Autozone Clutch Master Bracket 161 Forum ECM 33 LKQ Alternator 30 LKQ Mass Air Flow Sensor 22 LKQ Engine Cover 10 LKQ Battery Junction 3 LKQ 4.8L LS Engine 831 LKQ Standalone Harness 513 BP Automotive ECM Reflash 138 BP Automotive Plug Wires 60 Speed Eng Starter 76 Rock Auto Valve Cover Gasket 12 Rock Auto Tensioner 19 Rock Auto Idler 14 Rock Auto O2 Sensors 42 Rock Auto Coil Pack 22 Rock Auto Thermostat 19 Rock Auto PCV Valve 3 Autozone Steam Vent Connector 6 Ebay EGR Block off Plate 13 Ebay Drive Belt 20 Rock Auto Flywheel Cover 8 Rock Auto Radiator Hose 13 Rock Auto Alt/PS Bracket 30 LKQ Battery Cable 13 LKQ Valve Cover 25 LKQ PS Pump 72 Rock Auto Starter Bolts 12 Ebay Fuel Lines 87 Jegs Fuel Filter 29 Jegs PS Pump Pulley 11 LKQ Clutch Hardware 16 LMC Fuel Rail Fittings 28 Ebay Throttle Cable 27 Ebay WT Gauge Adapter 16 Ebay ECM Mount 22 Ebay Upper Rad Hose 17 Ebay Collector Gaskets 21 Autozone LS Pulley Hardware 11 LKQ Idler Pulley 21 Rock Auto Windstar E-fans 74 Rock Auto E-fan Connectors 19 Rock Auto Fan Fuse Holders 12 Ebay E-fan Electrical 45 Autozone E-fan Electrical 18 Walmart E-fan Hardware 7 Lowes Trans Pigtails 21 Rock Auto Water Temp Gauge 27 Ebay Ground Straps 9 Ebay Collector Flanges 30 Ebay TPS Sensor 35 Autozone Hoses/Hw 21 Autozone Driveshaft 250 Triangle DS Ground Cable 6 Walmart ECU 42 Ebay ECU Tune 70 Ebay Fan Controller 29 Ebay Total 6,211
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11-08-2019, 09:09 AM | #21 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
You will notice I have ECU, Tune, MAP, TPS on here a couple times as I had a junk tune from BP Automotive and was trying to resolve this. Go with a $50 ebay tune, I used Gravel Road Tuning and it was perfect out of the box. BP Automotive has horrible customer service and their tune did not work at all for multiple reasons.
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11-11-2019, 10:46 PM | #22 | |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
Quote:
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1970 CST LS 1 6 speed Ford 9 inch Detroit Tru Track, Dakota Didgital, Vintage Air, QA1 Coil Overs Front & Rear Lots of FUN 2013 GMC PU, Oldest Son 71 GMC LWB. QA1 Suspension, Angry SB. Youngest Son 2019 GMC Diesil Dually. Youngest Son 2017 Toyota SUV Daughters car 2018 Traverse , Wife’s Ride Pittsburg Ca 94565 |
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11-12-2019, 12:32 PM | #23 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
I’m using the stock 6 cyl radiator. So far I’ve only had it idle but with no fan it keeps the temp between 200 and 210. With the Taurus efan, it was below 200.
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11-12-2019, 02:45 PM | #24 |
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Re: Someone wants my big block. Ls costs???
I went down this same road about a year ago.
Sold my BBC for $3k. Budget LS swap costs ~ $3.3k I did all the work myself on the LS swap. I purchased a used pull out 5.3/4l65E (with harness and pedal) for $1500. To do my budget swap I spent about $1800 on odds and ends (mainly fuel system upgrades) to complete my swap. However every time I drive the LS swapped truck it was worth it. Turn key on, fuel pump primes, engine fires up, and the truck haul a$$ when you push the pedal.
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