open_road_toad
OBS Enthusiast
Hey everybody,
After a lot of research I’ve decided to do a LQ4 (gen 3 6.0) with a 4L60e transmission swap into my 1988 Chevy C1500.
I thought I’d share how I came to this decision and the steps I will be taking to get there.
I have an all original unmolested truck. Had 64k miles on it when I purchased it approx 6 years ago. Old timer bought it new from a local dealer and he kept it garaged and never drove it in the snow (so I’m told). I’ve owned a couple of squarebody over the years and it’s true what they say about the GMT400. I love this truck.
It has a 350/700R4. Truck is tired. I’ve replaced all the wearables over the years. Last spring I redid the top end. It’s my daily and I use it for work.
My original intent was to rebuild the engine and upgrade it with a roller cam and aluminum headers. I then figured on installing a Holley Sniper EFI to replace the stock TBI and allow for tuning of the camshaft. I talked to a local engine builder (im in NE Ohio and we have plenty of good machine shops around here) and quickly realized that for the money I would have into the stock engine I could get a LS for less and make more power and have better fuel mileage.
I got a LQ4 out of a running 2006 truck from the local auto salvage yard. $1000. I’m in the process of tearing it down (leaving the bottom end alone) and will be replacing the oil pump, oil pickup tube o ring, gaskets, lifter bearing upgrade and installing a BTR Truck Norris cam. I’m leaving some stuff out but basically whatever needs replaced while on the stand I’m gonna do it.
I will use the Holley Terminator X to control the engine and transmission.
I’d like to do the Holley mid-mount accessory drive kit but that’s gonna add a bit to the budget. Not sure about that.
For the transmission I don’t have one. Instead of buying a used one and having it rebuilt I spoke with the guys at Performabuilt and they suggested their 4L60e Heavy Hauler model that comes with a torque converter. It’s $3900. I did the math on this and it’s cheaper than buying a used trans and having it rebuilt.
I already have a new 34” radiator and the stock fans/shrouds for a 2008 2500.
I’ll probably use ICT mounting plates. Not sure on headers yet but that should be pretty straightforward.
I will be doing all of this myself with some help from my son. This is one of the reasons I’m going with the pricey Holley Terminator system.
I’m really excited about this project. I’m gonna chip away at it over the winter and into the spring. My goal is to have a good running truck that sounds good and makes good power.
I’ll share my build with you guys as I go.
Thanks!
Todd
After a lot of research I’ve decided to do a LQ4 (gen 3 6.0) with a 4L60e transmission swap into my 1988 Chevy C1500.
I thought I’d share how I came to this decision and the steps I will be taking to get there.
I have an all original unmolested truck. Had 64k miles on it when I purchased it approx 6 years ago. Old timer bought it new from a local dealer and he kept it garaged and never drove it in the snow (so I’m told). I’ve owned a couple of squarebody over the years and it’s true what they say about the GMT400. I love this truck.
It has a 350/700R4. Truck is tired. I’ve replaced all the wearables over the years. Last spring I redid the top end. It’s my daily and I use it for work.
My original intent was to rebuild the engine and upgrade it with a roller cam and aluminum headers. I then figured on installing a Holley Sniper EFI to replace the stock TBI and allow for tuning of the camshaft. I talked to a local engine builder (im in NE Ohio and we have plenty of good machine shops around here) and quickly realized that for the money I would have into the stock engine I could get a LS for less and make more power and have better fuel mileage.
I got a LQ4 out of a running 2006 truck from the local auto salvage yard. $1000. I’m in the process of tearing it down (leaving the bottom end alone) and will be replacing the oil pump, oil pickup tube o ring, gaskets, lifter bearing upgrade and installing a BTR Truck Norris cam. I’m leaving some stuff out but basically whatever needs replaced while on the stand I’m gonna do it.
I will use the Holley Terminator X to control the engine and transmission.
I’d like to do the Holley mid-mount accessory drive kit but that’s gonna add a bit to the budget. Not sure about that.
For the transmission I don’t have one. Instead of buying a used one and having it rebuilt I spoke with the guys at Performabuilt and they suggested their 4L60e Heavy Hauler model that comes with a torque converter. It’s $3900. I did the math on this and it’s cheaper than buying a used trans and having it rebuilt.
I already have a new 34” radiator and the stock fans/shrouds for a 2008 2500.
I’ll probably use ICT mounting plates. Not sure on headers yet but that should be pretty straightforward.
I will be doing all of this myself with some help from my son. This is one of the reasons I’m going with the pricey Holley Terminator system.
I’m really excited about this project. I’m gonna chip away at it over the winter and into the spring. My goal is to have a good running truck that sounds good and makes good power.
I’ll share my build with you guys as I go.
Thanks!
Todd
