Ok, I know what 99% of you guys are gonna say: V8 Swap. But, I already have a 2005 GMC rcsb with a modded 6.0 in it. I recently bought a 2008 GMC rcsb with the 4.3L V6 to drive everyday. It's already pretty tricked out looks-wise, but the motor/drivetrain is completely stock. I want to see what these little V6's are capable of, just for fun. I'm not looking to make a fast truck, just a fun little project to see what I can make this truck do.

With that being said, what are some things I can do, without breaking the bank, to help the little motor out? I was thinking fab up some type of CAI, throw on an exhaust, corvette servos and do a custom tune. I was also considering swapping the rear end for one with 3:73 gears to increase low end but not lose a whole lot of gas mileage.

Any other ideas? If funds were plentiful, I'd throw a turbo on it just for ***** and giggles, but I don't wanna sink thousands into the truck and then blow the motor. Looks like I'm stuck with bolt-on items.

 

I'd start with gears and go from there.

 

You'd be surprised what the v6's are capable of. I used to have a '99 3.8L Camaro that surprised alot of people. The biggest change will come from a gear swap and tune. On top of that just do your basic Intake and exhaust and I bet you'll be happy with the results.