Hello all:
This is my first post, but I have been reading for about 3 weeks now. I was wondering if anyone has converted their 5.3 silverado to the 8.1? If so what was involved? <img border="0" alt="[evil]" title="" src="graemlins/gr_devil.gif" />

 

I havent converted any, but from my experience this would be a pretty expensive and time consuming swap. The wiring harness would need to modified,exhaust headpipes changed,all 8.1 accessories,etc. You would be better off building and 6.0 with H/C. It would put out about the same power, save weight, and bolt right in with no mods other than a little tuning. Just my 2 cents

 

Everything LS1NOVA and the x-member is different (lower) in the 8.1 trucks.

 

OK, thanks for the info. I think I will just upgrade to the new Radix blower and get rid of what I have now. <img border="0" alt="[USA]" title="" src="graemlins/patriot.gif" />

 

What do you have now that you will get rid of??

 

My GMC dealer told the 8.1 gets pounded by the Duramax it is sooo sloow. I think you are making the right choice. I am considering a LS1 'vette motor swap. So far it is not sounding to bad. Check the post under 'vette LS1 with 5.3 intake.

 

Well I did the Radix, and I can only say one thing..........WOW. Anyone running a short bed with the radix? I am wondering what I will run at thte track. <img border="0" alt="[shoot]" title="" src="graemlins/gr_guns.gif" />

 

I have a short bed with a Radix but haven't been to the track yet. I fully agree WOW was the first words out of my mouth.
Karl

 

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by GMC SS:
<strong> My GMC dealer told the 8.1 gets pounded by the Duramax it is sooo sloow. I think you are making the right choice. I am considering a LS1 'vette motor swap. So far it is not sounding to bad. Check the post under 'vette LS1 with 5.3 intake. </strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Go drive one, they are definately not slow. Big blocks are some seriously sweet motors. Sounds like they were just trying to make a few more bucks in a potential sale

 

If anyone saw the TNN show trucks last sunday they had a 1/2 ton RC/SB with an 8.1 conversion. engine left stock, was painted in hugger orange and seats had 69 Z28 style custom trimming. Looked sweet. If you want a awsome truck put in a 422ci modded 6.0 blocked LS1 in, any trucks get the C5R touch yet???