Buying a whole truck for the drivetrain

[79bonanza]

I want to put an 8.1L in my crew cab and have it an all factory setup.
I've looked for dropout engines on eBay etc... And not finding much. I've found a few complete trucks close by for around 6-8000.

I'm trying to decide if it'd just be easier to buy a whole truck and use everything I need and then part out or scrap the rest.

Idk what do you guys think?

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

Would you scrap the truck when you're done?

Do you want the trans that the 8.1L would come with? What about a t-case (if you're thinking 4WD)?

Seems like those engines don't demand a premium. Don't get me wrong, they're good stuff, but the Mustang guys ignore them

 

[79bonanza]

Yeah I'd either part out or scrap what wouldn't sell quickly.

I'd run the trans as long as it's a 4l80 and no to the t-case, prolly just sell it too.

I just can't find a good dropout swap drivetrain. Everyone wants 6.0 or 5.3. I can't find any 8.1L

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

How about this

 

[79bonanza]

Saweeet, I didn't even know they did 8.1L. I'll prolly go this route unless I find a really good deal close by

 

[sweetk30]

I search 8.1 a few times a month on ebay .

were have you been looking ? ? ? always 2-3 on there .

 

[sweetk30]

How about this

after all the trouble he has had here I would think twice for them . start mid 20 page for the swap and problems. https://ck5.com/forums/threads/rjfguitars-resto-mod-went-offroad.276065/

 

[Carcinogen]

Why not get something wrecked or being auctioned? something like this maybe?

http://www.copart.com/us/Lot/19525216?searchId=2143312848

 

[diesel4me]

I would think a "whole donor truck" would be a better way to go--you get all the required things needed to go along with the engine--like the computer,wiring harness,all the little clips & do-dads and other pita stuff you'll end up scouring salvage yards for and delaying your progress..and have to pay more for..

 

[RootBreaker]

keep searching CL.. i just found a guy with a 8.1L, pcm and harness with manifolds for $950 OBO.. im trying to get the cash up ... not gonna happen most likely...