this is a 2 part question,, i would like to convert a 1994 s10 blazer 2wd 4.3 and manual TO a 350 v8 using the same tranny will it bolt up direct ? or can you tell me what would i need to make the change work

2nd i have a 1983 s10 blazer 4x4 with a bad 2.8 (just blew yesturday ) can some please tell me what is needed to convert to 350 v8 auto -- both are possible summer projects for my son and my self

 

The '94 will be a bit easier to convert except for the electronics. The v8 will bolt up to your trans.

The '83 doesn't have the electronics, but the trans bellhousing is not compatible with the v8. So a new trans will be inorder.

JagsThatRun.com will have more info on the v8 conversion. Both are very worthy projects, but both have their complications.

Good luck!

 

hey swartlkk thanks for the feed back. can u explain a little more on the electronics. we want to convert this blazer into a dune buggy type thing, we thought maybe cutting the top down and putting a roll cage. need some ideas. any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

If you are considering an offroad buggy construction, then electronics doesn't matter one bit. Also, depending on your local regulations, it might not matter for onroad use either. I don't think the trans in your '94 is electronic so you should be safe there. I assume you can basically eliminate the computer and engine wiring harness all together. I say 'assume' because I don't have a lot of experience with the earlier gen wiring. You will need to get a book that'll include the wiring diagram of your existing system so that you know what can be removed and what has to stay. You'll basically be converting it from TBI or CPI (whichever it is) to a carb so you won't need any of the injection stuff... Anyway, that all applies for the '94.

The '83 won't have ANY of those controls and aside from finding a v8 tranny w/ transfer case, it would be easier, wiring wise, than the '94. If you can do the wiring work yourself, the '94 would just be cheaper to do.

Are you able to make a hodge-podge of the two vehicles? Like could you use the trans from the '94 in the '83? Kind of mix and match parts. I do not know if the trans would fit without modification.

*EDIT* - Ha! Completely missed the fact that your '94 was a manual tranny and 2wd. All the easier to convert it to a v8!

Anyhow, if you wanted to convert both, you'll need a new tranny, transfer case, and possibly driveshafts if the other components didn't come out of an S-series vehicle.