Old to New K5

[Rollcenter]

Ok Hello Im new here I have a 73 k5 and will be getting a new truck or upgrading this one. The cost of a new Silverado vers a rebuild to a diesel is the idea. Around 6 grand for the system not including a trans and a transfer case. Since I am challenged on what I really need to buy is the Question. Has anyone done a DURAMAX conversion on a older K5? The reason I want the diesel is the idea of doing a hydrogen generator install to boost fuel mileage and to burn biodiesel in it. Since you get a greater gain on diesel then pump gas. This will be my bird hunting rig more then a full off road rig. I think a cap of around 9 to 10 grand will be break point since for a few more grand I can ride in comfort of a new Silverado and then this nice k5 will go on the block I have about 12 grand in it now but the 350 just wont get past 18 mpg no matter what I do. ps Am selling the hard top in good condition haven't put it on in 6 years now. [email protected]

 

[Thunder]

I dont know about the Dmax....... A 6.2 or 6.5 TD would be a far easier and cheaper swap and get better MPG too.

 

[fordeater]

but the 350 just wont get past 18 mpg no matter what I do.

Do you think dumping all of that money into a duramax swap is going to pay off? I'd be happy with 18 MPG in any old chevy. Crap, my 98 Silverado Z71 won't get better then 17 mpg

 

[Rollcenter]

I guess that is my Question is it worth it or should I just sell my k5 and get the new truck. I have dumped a ton into it it has 110.000 miles on it. Im the 3rd owner have every receipt of everything ever done to it. Just trying to see if its been done and what the real cost was. With gas going up I have to make choices as to what I enjoy more. And to keep this rig or replace it is one of them. I wont get a dime for trade in so I pretty much have to buy the new truck out right. And if I do that then I have to sell my ole blue which she aint no virgin but she sure is nice. I really only take it Elk and bird hunting. It is just so nice to hear that 350 thru the flowmasters when no cops are around.

 

[blowedupmotor87]

The Dmax swap would be awesome, I'd love to have one in my Jimmy! But, that's a lot of $ and complications to jump into right there! A 6.2, 6.5, or 4bt swap any of them would be much simpler! Sure they won't put out the power a Dmax would but, they'd get better mileage and be WAY cheaper!!!

 

[NorCalKid]

You could go with a Cummins swap too. I think I remember hearing that it is hard to fit a DMax under an older hood because it is such a tall engine. I would check out the diesel section

 

[jonrpick]

What about a 5.9l 6BT?? I see that on here, and it'd have to be cheaper and easier than the D-Max swap.

 

[blackk5350]

just get somthing that blows alot of black smoke! id do a 6.5 turbo, for the easier install and to keep it simple. just make sure you get a big ol 8" exhaust tip!!!