Here's some update's I finally got this thing almost to the point where I can start it and I really can't wait it's been a long project...

Finally got the ls engine wiring and fuel lines all hooked up...



I ended up having to rebuild the 4L60E because the input drum clutches were shot...






Now time to tackle the rest of the 98 swap chassis wiring then it's time to start this thing up..

 

Hi been watchin this site for a while just sighned up. Im looking to remove a 4.3 tbi for a 5.3 the truck is 5-speed manual was thinking about keeping that way will the 5.3 work with factory 5-speed or is there a better manual tranny ive heard talk about the t56?. i plan on buying the engine mounts, fabricateing the exhaust myself as with the cooling system i have a radiator and fan from a 2000 which uses the clutch fan was thinking of useing. But electric fans mite be a good idea to guess i"ll cross that bridge when i get there. I was wondering about a/c compresser location i plan on keeping it is there a after market bracket that can be used or just build your own? Any extra input will be nice im sure there will be more questions! Thanks

 

Well I finally got to take my truck for a test drive and it ran great has alot more power than I was expecting and turns over my 285/65/18 nitto at's over on dry pavement pretty easily, now I can't wait to finish my 98 interior painting and installation so ican really start driving it. I installed the factory 01 cat's and a full 3" exhaust with the dynomax superturbo muffer and was somwhat disapointed with the sound it's way to quiet for my liking but after all the fabrication and welding there's no way i'm cutting it up again.

 

It should get louder as it breaks in though. Loving the progress.

 

Here's some updated pics of my engine compt, still working on tiding things up under there. Had to install the factory clutch fan to drive around a little till I can make a trip to the junk yard to pickup another 16" fan from a 95 grand prix. Can't wait to get the twin electrics on this thing that stock clutch fans louder than the old school straight fan.






and now a little of the messy a$$ interior still have alot of the panels pulled to be painted before I reinstall them.


And here's a little of my tire woe's i've cranked the torsion bars and almost got enough clearance only to have the corner of the tires scrub on the air dam and bumper corner.

 

This thread makes me sad I don't have my 5.3 in yet

 

Don't be sad bud good things come to those who wait. When I bought my truck it had a broke piston, I originally planned to build a 383 for it, got it about 90% built then decided it to be too much motor for my daily driver and stepped back and made the jump for the ls swap for the effecieny and and power. Over 1 year later I dropped the 5.3 in and finally got to drive it and it's been worth all the time and effort for sure. Easpecailly with my super tight budget for the ls swap that's why i did all the machine work and wiring myself.

 

looks really good man. good job

 

thx, i really can't wait to get it all togeher so I can start really driving it.

 

I finally got to take this thing on the road for a nice drive and man that 5.3 runs great hiss great oil pressure and 190deg water temp finally got both doors fully assembled and and it's starting to look really good this thing really shocked me with how good it rides the thing rides and drives better than the 07 crew cab 2wd I used to have even with the cranked torsion bars rancho offroad shocks and bigger tires makes it a real please to drive.... Very very happy with it now...