I will start by saying I DID try several searches. Unfortunately, the site doesn't allow you to search for the terms "8.1L" or "6.0L." That said, here are my questions:

Wikipedia states that the Vortec 8.1L ranges from 225-340 hp from 350-455 tq. First question, what power can one expect in an '01-'02 Silverado 2500 or 3500? Why is the power range so big?

Second, I have found a few posts that say the 8.1L is considerably louder than the 6.0L. Are they talking about in the cab noise? If so, how much worse is it than the 6.0L?

 

The power rating is so vast because the 8.1 is used as an industrial engine(for genmerators, water pumps etc), and as such is rated differently than a vehicle engine is.

Your truck will be 340hp@4200rpm and 455 lb/ft torque@3200rpm.

peace
Hog

 

I have always wondered why more guys don't go for the cubes and build a 8.1 up? I'm sure the after market support isn't anything like the ls motors, but still, it's 8.1 L's to work with. I'd have to think even a mild build with a shot would be killer in a 1/2 ton, anyone done one of these up?

 

It sounds good with 8.1 litres to work with, trouble is- not many transmissions would live behind such a beast for very long. Would be killer is a half- ton indeed, though.............

 

How do the 6.0L and 8.1L differ in terms of driving? Can you tell the difference in power when driving around town or playing in the mud?

I don't do much pulling, so I probably don't NEED the 8.1L but after all, it's a big block. They seem to be cheaper to buy than the 6.0L too. More power for less money....I don't see the dilemma!

 

CONS:
heavy, expensive to mod, little space in the engine bay, short on performance suppliers, seriously factory detuned, restrictive top end, and little to no info out there about them in an automotive application.

PROS:
Gobs of torque with a little bit of work, fun to drive, responds well to power adders, backed up with tough tranny's and rears that usually dont need mods unless you exceed the 450rwhp mark, still thinking.......

 

Most 8.1L's come with the Allison behind them, which is a TUFF tranny and has many upgrade do to it's popularity in the Diesel World.