ENGINE & TRANSMISSION CONVERSIONS INFO
2WD & 4WD S10/S15 VEHICLES
We have been developing engine and transmission parts for the popular GM S-series trucks and mini-Blazers from the early eighties. We have found the S10/S15 an easy vehicle to convert. We’ve strived to research every possible conversion problem or difficulty that you might encounter when converting your vehicle. It is our opinion that if you use our recommended parts, you will be able to complete your conversion with a minimal amount of difficulty. This manual contains most of the necessary information or answers to questions that arise during the course of your engine and transmission conversion.
The parts we manufacture are available for either Chevy V8 or Chevy 4.3 V6, retrofitting the stock S10/S15 2.8L V6, 4 cylinder and stock 4.3 V6. Because of the diversity of applications, we do not offer complete conversion packages. We have grouped the conversion components by applications. Many of our components are necessary when converting your engine and/or transmission. Items such as exhaust and radiators can be modified or sourced elsewhere.
When converting your S10/S15 to a V8, many of the original components can be reused such as your power steering pump, alternator, and A/C compressor. However, we have found that these components are only compatible with 1978 or newer V8 engines. The following subsections will provide you with some ideas related to the new V8 requirements. We have purposely left off specific bracket part numbers. We have found that specifying certain bracket part numbers could cause you difficulty because of the various engine options. For this reason, we only supply part numbers that will fit the majority of the Chevy V8 engines. Please read over the following information carefully before proceeding with your conversion. By doing so, you may eliminate any unforeseen problems.
GENERAL CONVERSION INFORMATION:
Engines & Transmissions: The S10 2WD was first introduced in 1982, and the 4WD model became available in 1983. These vehicles came stock with a 2.8L V6 or 4 cylinder, which proved to be underpowered. The transmissions used in these vehicles were either the 700R (60 degree bolt pattern) or T5. We offer the necessary components to install the Chevy 4.3 V6 or Chevy V8, utilizing either the TH350, 700R, or stock T5. These conversions for both the 2WD and 4WDs are very popular and can normally be performed without driveline modifications.
In 1988, the S-series pickups offered a 4.3 V6, and still utilized the 700R or the NV3500 transmission (shown). These engine and transmission combinations seemed to be an excellent upgrade, but many people still wanted V8 power.
In 1996, the NV1500 was introduced behind 4 cylinder motors. No adapters are available to retain this transmission.
Body Style Changes: In 1994, the body style on the S10/S15 was redesigned, and then the mini-blazer in 1995. Despite the exterior changes, the frame and chassis remained unchanged. Currently, engine conversions using our components have been performed on vehicles as new as 2000 (on 2WD vehicles), and 1997 (on 4WD vehicles).
Many questions arise when considering any engine swap. Some of these questions include: Year & size block to use, transmission choice, transfer case & axle strength, suspension requirements, body lift, cooling, exhaust, and installation time. On the following pages, we have attempted to answer these questions, plus many others.
TOOLS REQUIRED:
The S10/S15 utilizes a variety of metric fasteners. Most of the stock engines are completely metric along with the transmission. It is recommended that you have the proper metric wrenches to complete this conversion. In addition to this, you will need an engine hoist and a torque wrench. Welding or cutting, in most instances, is not required; however, there are variations in different vehicles that may require the use of a welder or cutting torch.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION REMOVAL STEPS:
To remove the engine, take off the hood, drain the cooling system, and depressurize the A/C system. Next, disconnect all necessary electrical connections and remove the fan shroud, radiator and fan. Make sure that you label all the electrical connections to ensure the proper connection to the new engine.
The next step is to remove the heater hoses, air cleaner, vacuum hoses, throttle cable and the upper "Y" pipe bolts. It is advised that you label all of your vacuum hoses so that they can be reattached in the correct location. Now, remove the fuel lines, the transmission strut rods, and finally the motor mount bolts. In some instances, it may be necessary to remove the A/C compressor
and the power steering pump; however, in most applications this can be avoided. This procedure for removing the engine will take between two and six hours. The transmission should be removed prior to the engine removal. You cannot remove the engine and transmission as one unit on 4WD vehicles; and on 2WD vehicles it depends on whether the grille is removed.
ENGINE SELECTION:
First check your local Department of Motor Vehicles for smog & engine requirements. Certain states, such as California, require the same year or newer engine as the vehicle. (The engine should be complete, retaining all smog equipment). Both the Chevy V6 & V8 fit well in these vehicles. All Chevy V8 blocks, whether it be a 305 327 or 350, all have the same physical dimensions and use the same motor mounts. Choosing the right block depends on the intended use of your vehicle and your state regulations.