I have a 1985 K5 4WD with a 350sb and 700r4. The engine went out on me and I always said I might as well swap it if this happens. I am going to get an overbuild on the 4l60e but other that that I'm not sure what I should pull the engine/trans from in order to get the most bang for my buck. I'm not looking for anything crazy. I want to use it as a daily driver with decent mileage
​​​​​but some power never hurt nobody. What do I need to pull the engine tranny from? Is there anything I should be looking out for and what extra purchases do I need to make it work? I know that if I went straight to 4l60e I would need a transmission controller, do I still need with the LS? Any help is appreciated!

 

I suggest getting an eBay package from an 01 drive by cable 2500 pickup with a 4l80e. The 4l60Es are just garbage. You will have a better first gear, and factory strong components. No upgrades are needed for daily. Look for a manual shift transfer case.
I think those are the bare bones you need.

get vats removed from ECU. Electrical will be easy, but let’s circle back to that
get an in tank 58 psi fuel pump. Get the tank washed while you have it out. I think walbro is the best. Plan on running two lines depending on your rail. Neither return or return less are better or worse.
mount engine and trans. Just look for your year make model swap mounts. They are everywhere.
Jegs has a great kit. Part number 555-60388 for your trans cooler. You can get away with an air cooled, but these are superior for not much more.
exhaust is whatever you figure out too. There’s too much room in that truck to talk about what fits. Pretty much everything fits.
I suggest 4” drive line. Take it on the chin and have it custom made at a drive line specialist.