4.8LsX & 5spd Swap Options...

[fishtail8]

Here's the dilema. Got a customer with a 2000 Chev, 4.8/5spd 4x4, with a popped engine. He's trying to figure out what swap options he can do with this truck. He also has to be able to pull his 20ft holiday trailer too.

1- Put either a 5.3 or a 6.0 behind the 5spd. I don't like this one mainly because i think the 5spd is only a NV3500 and would take a crap shortly after install. There's probably a good reaon they didn't offer it from the factory.

2- Swap in 5.3 or 6.0 and convert to an auto. This one sounds like changing alot of wiring harness details, as well as some possible computer swapping or reflashing.

3- He hinted at maybe getting a 6spd, problems there are adapting to the transfer case.

In my own opinion, it's probably cheaper and easier for him to just go out and buy a used truck with a 5.3 or a 6.0. By the time you hunt around for parts, factor in labour and downtime with the truck, you might come out ahead buying a different truck that will suit the purpose.



Anyone concur? Or do I just have my head up my ass...

[6'9"Witha69]

New truck time if he doesn't want another 4.8. The newer 4.8s have more power torque than the '00 model, so he would do better there too.

The auto swap would require a PCM reflash for the trans programming.

Manual trucks (1500 series I am positive) also have lower tow ratings from the factory.

[fishtail8]

No one else wants to wade in on this?

[1badchevelle]

I would say go with a 6.0l(LQ9) complete pull out with harness and emc. I have seen them in my area for around $3k with a 4l80e. I know a guy selling a 2004 6.0l complete motor harness wires and ecm (42k miles) for $2500