New to the forum. Not sure if this is the place for this question.

I just bought a 1987 s10 2.8 l 4x4 automatic.

I was told the 2.8 isn't the best - will a 4.3 bolt straight in?

 

Nope. The question has been asked quite a bit in the past. The 2.8L is a 60* V engine while the 4.3L is a 90* V (same as the v8s). You would have to change the transmission to match.

A quick search will give additional information.

 

Thanks, yea I figured the trans would have to be replaced as well. So for the swap to a 4.3 would I have to change the engine mounts?

I was told the 2.8 is not so good of an engine. Better to have the 4.3.

 

If you are going to go through the trouble, why not swap straight to a v8?

 

I could go bigger. Not really sure what all is involved with a 350.

I have a 4x4 so I would assume I would have to convert over pretty much all the major componets. Engine, trans, transcase, wiring rear end and so on.


350/th400 work? I might want to look into it.

What would I need?

 

You would need a new transmission simply because of the bell housing difference, but your transfer case and everything else should bolt up to the replacement transmission provided you choose properly.

Check out JagsthatRun.com

 

I like the th400 trans. I am not so good at wiring and electrical though. So doing any swap has me a bit nerviuos.

 

TH400's are power hogs. The only reason to run one is if you are pushing some major power and/or torque.

You shouldn't have much wiring to mess with, especially if you go carb'd.

 

Good point on the carb. Finding a 350/350 combo is pretty easy and relatively cheap. Now to find someone in my area to set the mounting brakets. I can do the R&R not a problem.

Off topic question how does one add images, avatar and so on?

 

For direct fitment, you will want to find a 350/700R4 combo. This will bolt directly up to your current transfer case and transmission cross member.

As far as adding images to your posts, etc, check out the stickies in the Forum Help & Suggestions Center located at the bottom of the main page. For Avatar and Signature settings, go into your 'User CP' via the menu bar at the top of the page.