Ok... so I have pretty much decided to go ahead with the Trooper engine swap (2.8 to 3.4) I will also be adding a new cam and valve springs to get a few more ponies.

I am also re-building the 4.3L TBI and enlarging the intake holes for better air/fuel flow. While the motor is out, I will also be replacing the clutch and possibly the transmission. (The input shaft bearing is bad, and the tranny whines in all but 4th gear) I figure it will be cheaper to get a used tranny than it will be to take the tranny to a shop to have the bearing replaced since it seems to be in the middle of the tranny somewhere from what I have read.

I am also considering re-gearing the diffs since I am running 33s. So here come the questions:

1. What gears should I use. I don't want to lose all of my highway speed, but I do want to be able to get going quickly.

2. Any advice on the tranny? Anyone know what it costs to have a shop do the input shaft bearing? Anyone have a used 5 speed for cheaper than the cost of the transmission shop to do the bearing?

3. Anyone need a used 2.8L V6??? (Runs really good!!!)

4. I have heard that there is a template for drilling/tapping the starter boss on the left side of the engine... Anyone have one?

I will take lotsa pics and document the whole thing for others who want to do the same thing(s)


No... I am not interested in doing an SAS... I already see THAT one coming!

4.56s should be fine with an engine with some actual power. 4.77s would probably be better, but they are usually more $$ than the 5.38's. 5.38's would allow you the option of going up tire sizes

and when you do your SAS you wont have to worry about the regearing <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/butwiggle.gif" alt="" /> (dont act like you wont do it eventually <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />)

nice to see another NC person on here. if you need a tranny PM Trooper4life, i believe he's still got one that he'll let you have for real cheap. he's in washington, nc. and if you need a 4.77 gear set i've got a pair of those <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> good luck with the swap, keep us posted.
<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />
Eric

Thanks Eric!

It is nice to see another North Carolinian up in here!!! I am definately interested in your gears, and T4L's tranny! I can't wait to get this project done so I can go wheelin' this spring!