Engine Swap

[8t7jimmy]

To start off I have 2 Blazers. An 87 that is beyond gone with rust, but I good running reliable EFI drive train. The second is an 82. It is in very good shape and is already setup with a lift kit, upgraded axles, B52s, 56" rear springs...., but it has no engine or transmission. I want to pull the engine and trans from the the 87 and put it in the 82 (And gas tank). But I am concerned about all the electronics, computer, wiring transferring over properly and being a complete nightmare to diagnose. I have been thinking about maybe purchasing a stand alone EFI kit to make the swap super simple. It seems like I can get a simple setup for about 1K. The engine is a basic 350 probably stock, maybe a cam so no huge power numbers. I should add that this will mostly be an off road only, but will be licensed and streetable. I live in Indiana, so there are no emission rules to worry about.

What do you think? I am on a tight budget but Is it worth messing with the stock EFI, or just buying a basic stand alone aftermarket EFI kit. (A carb is not an option). If buying the after aftermarket kit, what one? There are a lot out there around the $1K price range.

Thanks!

Ryan

 

[ZooMad75]

There’s no reason you can’t swap the entire EFI setup over to the older truck. Just take your time to label where stuff goes and follow trough on the install.

Keep in mind that exact swap was done regularly back when LS swaps and aftermarket EFI systems weren’t available to do. If it was done back then it can still be done now.

 

[dyeager535]

There is no simpler or easier way to do it than using the stock stuff that comes from the exact same truck.

Only differences I can think of between those two years that would be different for EFI vs. carbed truck are the firewall holes for some of the wiring, and the ECM mount up behind the glove box may not be there. I'm probably missing a couple things, but everything else should be a direct swap over/bolt in.

You can't screw it up, all the connectors are keyed. You will quickly learn which connector is which. No cutting, no splicing.

 

[8t7jimmy]

Will there be any differences in fuel lines? I am moving over the tank so I will have the proper pump. Just not sure if it will all connect up the same.

 

[Wes Harden]

Yes you will want the tbi fuel lines from donor truck. Also you want the instrument cluster for vehicle speed sensor

 

[dyeager535]

Will there be any differences in fuel lines? I am moving over the tank so I will have the proper pump. Just not sure if it will all connect up the same.

You have both rigs, you'll be able to see side by side what isn't the same. Don't get rid of anything until the other truck is done, and up and running. I wouldn't worry too much about it, it should be pretty clear. If things are different, they won't connect.

You are going to have to pull the entire wiring harness (fuse panel and all) from both trucks BTW. Again, not particularly difficult, just time consuming.