from the chevy web site i can take the GVWR - the payload and come up with

ext cab short box 4x4 1500 = 4925
same but 2500 = 5524
same but 2500hd = 5828
crew cab short box 4x4 1500hd = 5817

so an extra 600lbs to goto the 2500, i can get a front locker for the 2500 , i would say i am going to need 100extra hp to get the same ET with the 2500.

 

Sounds like the kind of challenge that you'd like to accomplish. Go for it!

 

You could run the 8.1 that's 539CID with a cam,ASM intake manifold with 85MM throttlebody and headers to make 600+ horsepower then spray another 200 horsepower.The torque that motor would make could easily make up the added weight of the HD.5800 lbs truck with 800rwhp you're talking 7.25lbs per hp.You've probably got potential for 900rwhp things are beginning to sound interesting.

 

i think there is more potential with an ls1 based motor.

 

agreed, I could have had a 8.1 for $600 on the options but thoes oil burners are 496ci. I guess GM perormace parts is making a off highway/marine 525hp 8.1. But the Gen III based motors have so much aftermarket and interchangeability.

 

The 8.1 is 496 cubes, 4.25 bore x 4.37 stroke, iron block/heads. I think TPIS makes an intake manifold too.

But the compression is really low on it too (9.1:1). I don't see why a heads/cam 8.1 bumped compressions with some LTs making anything less than 550hp on the motor.

Don't forget there is also a twin screw intercooled supercharger out for the 8.1 too.

I just don't know how much power the stock internals can take on that monster. See I wonder about that Allison tranny...as you can read my other post.

There is far, far more power to be made with a big block than a stroker small block. Only question is about that damn trans.