Mailbag: Converting a V6 S-10 Blazer to a Small Block Chevy
Q: I have a 1985 S-10 Blazer with a carbureted 2.8L V6, 4WD, and a 4-speed manual transmission. What parts do I need to covert the truck to a small block Chevy? I know some of the parts include motor mounts and exhaust, but what about front springs, radiator, bellhousing, and wiring? Am I missing anything?
A: S-10-based V8 swaps have been popular for years. While you’ll find plenty of websites and forums dedicated to the topic, some of these sites include faulty information from non-professional enthusiasts. That’s why we’d recommend you start your project with Mike Knell’s Chevrolet S-Truck V8 Conversion Manual — the most complete book we’ve seen on S-10 V8 swaps. It has all the information you’ll ever need about doing this type of swap.
Some of the parts you’ll need will be a Hooker header and engine mount kit, Hooker installation kit, and the appropriate motor mounts. You’ll also need to swap out your stock four-speed manual transmission for an automatic transmission like a Turbo 350 or 700R4.
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Keep the manual transmission more fun
It will slightly more difficult with the earlier S-10 V6 – in 1988 or so when Chevy converted to the 90-degree V6 the frame rail on the passenger side is relieved around the exhaust manifold exit to help clearance. You can do this on the earlier S-10 but it does require some fabrication effort. It’s all in Mike Knell’s book. I did this swap on a 1990 S-10 – there’s only one exhaust manifold that will work – a 305 unit – it’s crazy restrictive. You are better off with a set of headers – Sanderson makes a nice set that are not real expensive.
You want to know what would just Freakin Fantastic as far as “I” am concerned? A swap kit or information on putting various versions of the LTG family of engines & eight speed transmissions into Both S truck platforms, two & four wheel drive! Lightweight, fuel efficient, very power dense, both of them supercharged & turbocharged versions! A ZR2 pickup with the LTG lightly stepped on with eight 8 speeds to choose from, yikes! Seems like a match made in GM heaven to me?