I'm looking at purchasing a 1988 S10 Blazer that's in much better shape than my current 1991 S10 Blazer. The issue is that I like the 4.3 Liter V6 motor in my '91 Blazer. The 1988 has a 2.8 Liter V6 and I was wondering if anyone knows if it's possible to swap these motors. The engine "cavity" looks the same, and the motors are about the same length, though the 4.3 L is wider. I want to buy this older rig and can drive it with the smaller motor - I just prefer the larger, more powerful motor. Both are 4x4 automatic if it means anything. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

You'll need motor mounts - possibly the frame mounts as well, as I hear the 2.8's are completely different. If it has a 700R4 tranny, it bolts right up to the 4.3 - just make sure the TV cable is adjusted properly & your good to go.

It'll be a bit of work, & you'll have to work the bugs out as you first drive it - normal with any engine swap. Just hit 1,000 miles since I installed a '00 Vortec in my '89 4.3, & I'm still making minor carb & fuel pressure adjustments to dial it in, along with an alternator, & wiper motor, pulse board & wiper switch ... plus radiator en route - seems to never end ....

 

Oh boy. This sounds like it's gonna be a lot of fun. Thanks.