8.1 liter big block Chevy

[Turbolq4]

Somehow I missed this thread. The 8.1 is a decent engine in completely stock form. Don't overrev them and don't modify them. It's prone to pitching rods if beat on. It's the redheaded stepchild of the Chevy big block family. Basically nothing from previous engines interchanges and the aftermarket support is dismal. If you really want to go the big block route there are better options for both power and reliability.

 

[Clutch]

Somehow I missed this thread. The 8.1 is a decent engine in completely stock form. Don't overrev them and don't modify them. It's prone to pitching rods if beat on. It's the redheaded stepchild of the Chevy big block family. Basically nothing from previous engines interchanges and the aftermarket support is dismal. If you really want to go the big block route there are better options for both power and reliability.

Your the first to say that I was thinking it would be a great truck motor all stock with just a dart intake Carberetor and hei distributor in it the only other options I have need full rebuilds 1 is an 87-91 454 that needs a set of heads and a full rebuild. Option 2 is olds 455 but it also needs a go through and the truck is not bop. All of my options would cost money but the 8.1 would probably be the cheapest to do because it has very low mileage. I figured a Holley 3310 that I all ready have the distributor out of the 350 and buy a new intake I could be rolling with 300 reliable horsepower. But that's what this post is for so I can learn something new

 

[Turbolq4]

They are good if left stock. It'll be running some serious rpm with the three speed but I can blame you for leaving it for now.

 

[olds307 and 403]

A near stock 455 would not be a great choice due to constant high RPM, lighter pistons and aftermarket rods would be on my list before the swap. The adapter is easy, I have done it in my 94 Z71. The 455's long intake runners, small ports and big stroke would be awesome in a truck. Your peanut port 454 is trying to do what the Olds 455 did naturally, make by torque. The 8.1 being a low mile is probably the best choice, does it use the same mounts and bell housing pattern as your sbc? If so, make a deal with your cousin, a 4L80E can be added later and there is a TPS available to add to Holley carbs.

 

[Clutch]

A near stock 455 would not be a great choice due to constant high RPM, lighter pistons and aftermarket rods would be on my list before the swap. The adapter is easy, I have done it in my 94 Z71. The 455's long intake runners, small ports and big stroke would be awesome in a truck. Your peanut port 454 is trying to do what the Olds 455 did naturally, make by torque. The 8.1 being a low mile is probably the best choice, does it use the same mounts and bell housing pattern as your sbc? If so, make a deal with your cousin, a 4L80E can be added later and there is a TPS available to add to Holley carbs.

Yes in my research I've found the 8.1 uses regular Chevy mounts and bell housing the big difference is in the heads and intake some say early BBC accessories can be modified to work also but I'd like to make it as much of a bolt on as I can