Silverado Engine Swap: Forum Newbie Seeks Advice
Chevrolet Forum member receives invaluable tips on replacing a 4.8L V8 with a 6.0 while saving lots of time, money, and aggravation.
More power — we all covet it. No matter how capable your Chevy truck might be from the factory, you can simply never have enough power. And while power ratings have climbed considerably over the years, owners of older pickups might find themselves a little short. This is true of Silverados with the 4.8 liter V8, which packs “only” 285 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.
That proved adequate back in 2005, but not 2017. So, you can’t blame forum member Conan for coveting the HD’s 6.0 liter engine and its 300hp/360 lb-ft of torque. Then, when Conan began to dream of a Silverado engine swap, he wisely turned to fellow Chevy enthusiasts in the forums of Chevrolet Forum for some advice.
“I have an ’05 Silverado 1500 2wd extended cab [with] a 4.8 [and] 240k miles on her. Did intake, dual exhaust, and pumped up PCM. How difficult is to swap in the 6.0 and the larger tranny? I’m concerned about the $$$ to find a good 6.0 and tranny. AND to find a local shop I can trust that will do great work. Am I looking at [spending at] LEAST $6k to do this swap!?!??”
Right off the bat, Tech2 suggests the 5.3 liter as more of a bolt-in alternative to the problem. Since the 6.0 liter only came in the heavy duty trucks and the SS, it’s a much cheaper and more viable solution.
“Good question, I would like to know also. When my 4.8 goes, if ever, I was going to drop in the 5.3; which is pretty much just engine and PCM programming. You probably could get some built 5.3 that would put out some decent hp numbers comparable to the 6l….but if you want the trans option, the 6l may be the way to go. The 6.0 goes into a different frame so I wonder if there are any mount changes. Visually, the mounts look the same but there may be slight location differences.”
” At some point just getting a 2500 truck with the better suspension, brakes, coolers towing capacity is more cost worthy.”
With his idea quickly spiraling out of control in regards to cost, Shocker6699 offers perhaps an even better alternative.
“I had my 4.8L bored and stoked to a 6.27L (384 stroker kit) and it has performed awesome. Also had a Magneson Supercharger installed. Very reliable and stable.”
“It was worth it as it is now described as a “Torque Monster”. 493 lbs torque and 453 HP at rear wheels.”
Finally, Danny Bates is able to provide some valuable information. Mostly since he already completed the 6.0 liter swap himself.
“02+ LQ4 6.0 will direct swap in your truck. I did it in mine and it was no problem. Kept mine stock and had a local shop put a factory tune in my ECM but everything swapped over from the 4.8. I used the 4L60e that was in my truck, but if you use the 4L80e you have to swap harness from 6.0 donor.”
Once again proving that the forums are the place to go with any sort of question you might have about your Chevy. No matter what your problem or question, someone out there has already been there and done that. So why not lean on that experience?
