This summer I plan on doing my first engine swap. I've done a decent amount of homework on the engine I'm looking into and believe it'll be a good motor. I'm a small engine mechanic, and have been for many years, but it's time to do some work on the ol' chevy.

I have a 1994 K1500 EXT Cab, with a 5.7L.

I'm looking at restoring the truck and swapping in a new motor. NOW.. As this is my first project.. I'm a little unsure of the best place to start.. I've never done this before so some of the questions I have off the top of my head:

I want to put a LSX 376 crate in the truck. I have some fitment - compatibility concerns..

Motor's rated to 450 N/A. Does that put me into a 4L70 Tranny? I HAVE to have 4WD or this project isn't happening. Is there any comparable trannys as well? What other options do I have?

What kind of issues will I run into with my transfer case? (bolting up, thresholds, etc) with this motor/tranny?

Am I going to run into any bellhousing size issues? IE: If the motor is sitting too far back for the housing to fit in the tunnel, etc.

Does anyone know if the accessory drives off this engine will fit?

The biggest question I have, is who can I ask for advice if I can't find any here? haha. Should I get a hold of chevrolet performance and look into the tranny dimensions? the motor, etc?

How can I be sure if the steering column will have the proper clearance?

Any other things I might be missing.. I just don't want to end up with a new crate motor in the garage and run into any big issues with fitment.