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Thread: 8.1 install

  1. #1

    Default 8.1 install

    Has anyone ever attempted to install a GM 8.1 into one of your trucks? Did a little research and appears I might have to cut the firewall, may have issues clearing my D60 in front, have to use a 12" clutch. I'm looking at investing in one a little time and money, but kinda worried about fit, parts to install and mate up to my SM465/205.

    Thanks!

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Dec 2003
    Location
    Giddings, Texas
    Posts
    7,729

    Default

    The 8.1 is just a tall deck Big Block Chevy, right? They have been fitted with the big clutches by several people. I had a 396 in mine for a number of years.

    However, if you use the Novak kit, the engine will be into the firewall on the passenger head. That happens with regular small blocks as well with that kit.
    Remember if you didn't build it you can't call it yours.

    6.2 powered M715, 5 M1009's, M416, 2 M101's, 2 M105's, 3 M35's, M1007 6.5 turbo Suburban project called Cowdog.

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCz...HGkBCfhXZ5iuaw

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jan 2004
    Location
    New Haven, CT
    Posts
    1,954

    Default

    Rather than cut the firewall, I would move the trans forward a bit and use a longer stub shaft (if retaining the divorced transfer case).

  4. #4

    Default

    Thanks for the input. More thinking about it and I’m not gonna go with the 8.1. I really want torque and seems to get that, I’d have to really build up a motor or go diesel. That being said, I picked up a ‘91 Dodge 12v Cummins truck as a donner today.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Dec 2003
    Location
    Giddings, Texas
    Posts
    7,729

    Default

    It will be more work and money. However, I think you will be a happy driver when it is done.
    Remember if you didn't build it you can't call it yours.

    6.2 powered M715, 5 M1009's, M416, 2 M101's, 2 M105's, 3 M35's, M1007 6.5 turbo Suburban project called Cowdog.

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCz...HGkBCfhXZ5iuaw

  6. #6

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Barrman View Post
    It will be more work and money. However, I think you will be a happy driver when it is done.
    Barrman, Didn't you do a Cummins 5.9 swap for someone with your students? Maybe you can give a little insight to the job?
    Zone holster maker

  7. #7

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by KKyzer View Post
    Thanks for the input. More thinking about it and I’m not gonna go with the 8.1. I really want torque and seems to get that, I’d have to really build up a motor or go diesel. That being said, I picked up a ‘91 Dodge 12v Cummins truck as a donner today.

    Good boy
    67' M715/5.9 Cummins/ZF5/NP205

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Dec 2003
    Location
    Giddings, Texas
    Posts
    7,729

    Default

    Yes I did Joe. Actually, still doing the truck. However, when it comes to the 6BT. I refer people to Mikel and all his post. He has many more complete and running down the road trucks out there than I do.
    Remember if you didn't build it you can't call it yours.

    6.2 powered M715, 5 M1009's, M416, 2 M101's, 2 M105's, 3 M35's, M1007 6.5 turbo Suburban project called Cowdog.

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCz...HGkBCfhXZ5iuaw

  9. #9

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Barrman View Post
    Yes I did Joe. Actually, still doing the truck. However, when it comes to the 6BT. I refer people to Mikel and all his post. He has many more complete and running down the road trucks out there than I do.
    He also does a really sweet job of putting an extra axle in them too.

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Jan 2004
    Location
    New Haven, CT
    Posts
    1,954

    Default

    Thank you, but there are cleaner conversions in this site

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