I just purchased an 07 Avalanche. I was thinking about putting twins on it (62mm) I have a 02 6.0L engine I could build, if they are the same (Gen III) design. I know the cars went to a Gen VI platform, but don't know if the iron truck blocks did the same.

What kind of drive train upgrades would have to be done for it to be reliable? Im looking to make anywhere between 700 - 1000 fwhp (depending on boost). If I cant get a reliable drivetrain with 700hp, I will probably stick to the Chevelle project I was originally building it for.

Anyone with an Avalanche please post up! Pics are a plus.

Thanks - Ron

 

Built 4L80E and associated conversion parts, new rear end, 3/4 ton T-case if 4WD, driveshaft(s)

 

I'd honestly suggest putting just boost on the avalanche, keeping it mild/reliable etc. and making the chevelle the big power monster. 900 hp vehicles consisently have downtime. Thats why I have a few toys.

 

What kind of boost will a stock motor and drivetrain take? Im guessing about 6psi on the motor. What kind of power will that make, and whats the current drivetrain limit?

Ron

 

the new motors are strong. my 2500 sub made 537/505 with 9-10 lbs of boost with a blower. Had more room to go but was out of fuel, and since its main job is daily driver/tow rig, I said whatever and we backed it down to 7 pounds.

Your weak link with a 1500 is gonna be the transmission. Built it can handle more, but in stock trim, most I'd wanna see is about 6 like you said, maybe more on special rare occasions. Transfercases I don't know much about, this sub is my first 4wd so I'd be talking out my ***. As for rears, the 14 bolt in the tahoe had held up for 40K miles of absolute hell between slicks, burnouts for no reason, towing etc. Stock with the addtition of an eaton posi. A stock 1500 10 bolt with an eaton posi and a girdle should be pretty strong for your needs.

 

You can get 10+ psi out the stock motor if properly tuned, fueled and with some decent valve springs. Add a cam to get the most out of it. You'll need an Eaton posi or TrueTrac in the rear. The trans will have to be well built though. e.g. FLT Level 5. On low boost the stock trans might last a while with a shift kit and servos.

 

Yeah, after researching a bit, I think this is the way I'm leaning now. It just seems to be too much work to make this truck reliable and fast.

Thanks guys for your input! - Ron