I have a 97 LS 4X4 i've bin reading a lot on the forums about increasing HP in the 4.3L motors and it seems that unless you have alot of money there is not much that can be done cheeply. I've also seen alot about 350 swaps but i don't really want to go with a big motor, i've bin looking into the 4.8L motor offered in the newer chevy tahoe and yukon's. it's the smallest V8 GM makes with 275 - 295 HP stock i think it will be perfect for my 97 blazer increasing HP with not that much of a weight increase so my question is can anyone tell me if the 4.8L vortec will bolt right in or not? i know the motor mounts will probably need to be re-worked, i need the wire harness, and the ECM but will it bolt to the 4L60E tranny?

this is just an idea for now

any info would be greatly appreciated Thanks in advance

 

personally i would say if your going through the troubles with an engine swap you may as well go big or go home. Id go with the 350 but thats just my opinion.

 

Unless you already have the 4.8L v8, I would step it up to a 5.3L at least. Better yet, a 6.0L LS engine. Same exterior size, but more cubic inches.

 

the reason I want the 4.8L is because i want the extra 100 or so HP and 50 + torque with as little MPG increase as possible the 4.3L and 4.8L are very close. not to to sure what the weight difference is between the 4.3L and 4.8L tho but i don't think the 4.8L is that much more heavier and i found a 4.8L all accessories, harnes, ECM for $600

 

I realize this doesn't really answer your question, but something to consider.

The LM4 and L33 are both aluminum versions of the 5.3L LSx style engine. These engines should be about 20 pounds lighter than a 4.3L.

 

What did those motors come in?

LM4 applications:

• 2003-04 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
• 2003-04 Isuzu Ascender
• 2004 GMC Envoy XL
• 2004 Chevrolet SSR
• 2004 Buick Rainier
  
  L33 applications:

• 2005-2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD
• 2005-2007 GMC Sierra 1500 4WD

 

i still can't believe that those Buick's came with something worthwhile. (wonder how long before Kyle responds to this? )

 

would be sick to have a 6.0 in a blazer haha

 

If you want the 4.8 go with it,some guys never understand why someone wants a smaller V8,it should make a great daily driver.