V8 Swap estimations

[Kris Guilbeaux]

So I have a lot of v-8 swap questions coming to me. I have been working on v-8 swap estimations for a Future Bandit Customs projects. So I figured I would compile a list of parts needed and their estimated costs.

Motor (used) $450.00
Transmission (Used) $250.00
303 Cam (optional) $200.00
Radiator HD $200.00
Engine bay harness $150.00
Oil pan $200.00
flywheel or flexplate $100.00
PCM $50.00
Clutch or TC $205.00
motor mounts $200.00
Transmission Rebuild $600.00
Adapter Or t-case $400.00
Custom AC lines $150.00
Accumulator $40.00
freon $36.00
Remote oil filter $80.00
Custom Exhaust $800.00
Reflashing the PCM (optional) $400.00
Gaskets and seals $500.00

Parts alone $5011.00


Labor on a project like this would range in the $3000-$3500 price range.

This really gives a good idea of what a v-8 swap what it would take to do this and how hard it would hurt your back pocket. Even as a DYI person its still costs in parts.

[KF5ZXT]

Nice thread. Are the prices on the motor from what your pick and pull charges for them, or just what you see them go for?

[Kris Guilbeaux]

That's the prices you find at our yards in Austin tx. I seen them go for more and less.

[MrQ]

Swaps on first gens or second?

[TxPlates]

I'd say the estimations are pretty close for being either a first gen or second gen.

[MrQ]

No I think this is for a first gen. A second gen is almost drag and drop, no custom exhaust or a/c lines, hd radiator or $200 for motor mounts.

[TxPlates]

Guess we'll never know since Kris isn't responding....lol

[Kris Guilbeaux]

Yes a v8 on a 2nd gen is cheaper. This is for 1st gens. If you get a donar truck it's even better.

[MrQ]

Personally I would rather put a 1" BL on a first gen and throw a SOHC in, no new computer and all you will need is the M5OD-R2 manual and some exhaust setup and boom you have added 50 horses!

[KF5ZXT]

Yeah, but you'd have what most people consider to be a less reliable motor.

[MrQ]

Some people, once the guides are replaced the SOHC lasts as long if not longer than the OHV.

[Kris Guilbeaux]

The sohc is not unreliable. It's more fuel efficient. But less available hp add ons

[KF5ZXT]

If I'm doing a V6 swap, it's going to be a 4.3.

[Kris Guilbeaux]

The Chevy 4.3?

[KF5ZXT]

That's the one.

[Kris Guilbeaux]

Good for mounting your trans to it. High hp But not much on torque

[KF5ZXT]

They are pretty comparable from the info I've found. The SOHC at 254 ft lbs, and the 4.3 at 260. It also has some actual aftermarket support. The 5.0 has 280 ft lbs, but weighs more.

[Kris Guilbeaux]

Then why go the 4.3 when either bolt up to your trans. And the sohc would be a cheaper install

[KF5ZXT]

[Kris Guilbeaux]

So you would spend $1000s more in fabrication to make a marginally better motor work for a little more aftermarket support. Doesn't seam quite worth it to me.

[KF5ZXT]

To the first part, yes, though partly because I find the use of 'marginally' and 'little more,' which, though obviously ambiguous and unquantifiable as terms, to be inaccurate in this case.

[Kris Guilbeaux]

Have you ever driven a 4.3 Chevy? I have personally I would keep my ohv before going with a 4.3

[TxPlates]

Just go diesel.

[Kris Guilbeaux]

Parker is right. The money you would waste on that 4.3 might as well get you a 4bt since money isnt an issue. Plus I am sure I could get it done faster then TAG

[KF5ZXT]