Title says it all. I have seen several threads here about doing a 6.0L swap. Why doesn't anyone do an 8.1L swap? If you are going to do a 6.0L swap, I would think that it would be a stiff built one. (supercharger, pistons, heads, cam, injectors, etc) Which means you are going to have to make upgrades to the rest of the drivetrain anyway. For example, you could spend $1000 plus to build up a 4L60e to handle 500+ HP. Why not sell the stock 4L60E and buy a 4L80E and build it up, (to go with the 8.1L). I realize that the cost isn't going to be exactly the same but if you are going to go to all that trouble why not go all the way? Are there not the same build up parts for the 8.1L that there are for the 6.0l? (IE the supercharger, pistons, heads, cam, injectors, etc)

 

they are just now coming out with build up parts. its a different engine all together.

 

It would require a lot more work. But it can and has been done.

 

the 8.1L is big block chevy based. its different enough that alot of BBC stuff will not fit and its a relatively low volume engine so there is not alot of developmnet going on for the production 8.1L. plus its going to be dropped in the future.

 

Don't forget that vehicles that have that motor, also have a one inch larger body bushings, and an extension on the front and rear bumper to hide the gap, and a beefier hood that is also .5" taller in the middle than the standard hoods.

 

Why nota turbo diesel instead ? Just a thought.

 

Really? So what is GM going to do for a big motor?

Not planning on doing a swap myself, just wondering.

 

why not two???









what are you gonna do with those anyways?

 

Thought I would weigh in on this one. I like to stop unfounded rumors. First a 6.0 swap is easy and I have done a few of them. But if your going to build up a 6.0 , heads, cam, exhuast or supercharger, the stock 4L60e is not going to last long. The 4L80e can take a lot more, but install the kevlar clutches if you are really going to drive hard or race. As for the 8.1 , I just had a conversation with the head of truck engine development with GM, John Avery and he said the 8.1 is going to be around for a long time. They just issued a new version with full floating rods to stop cold piston noises. We have just released our new BIGPOWER aluminum heads for the engine with accessories and our new intake manifold and cams will be available soon. We would not have invested over a hundred thousand dollars in new development if we even thought this engine was on its way out. Check out our new website @www.raylarengine.com. We know a EFI only 500+ HP 8.1 is here and we will release the dyno figures in a few weeks to prove it.
Have Fun - Race safe!
Raylar

 

If you want a big block there are tons of options in the crate motor market that are cheaper and make more power than a 8.1,think about a 502 or a 572 crate motor.1000hp could be easily available.