A New Heart for a Proven Machine
There’s no substitute for raw power — and this truck now has plenty. We pulled the old engine and dropped in a modern LS3 paired to a 6L80 transmission. Mated, wired, mounted, and made to work with the original dashboard and shifter. A aluminum high-performance radiator and slim fans keep it cool, while a custom fuel system and stainless dual exhaust let it breathe.
To handle the power, we rebuilt the transfer case, resealed the steering box, and swapped in stock-height Terrafirma struts to tame the ride. We patched the old snorkel hole, rust-proofed the engine bay, and added sound deadening under the hood — so it growls, but doesn’t rattle.
Refined Where It Counts
This isn’t just a drivetrain job — it’s a full rethink. From LED lighting upgrades to clean wiring, new relays, and dash integration, every inch was touched with intent. The brakes were upgraded with drilled and slotted rotors. The body? We stripped the dents and prepped it for a full respray, including bumpers and wheels. What rolls out isn’t just faster — it’s tighter, cleaner, and built to last.
Highlights of the build:
LS3/6L80 engine and transmission swap
Aluminum radiator with slim fan setup
Custom stainless dual exhaust with new cats
In-tank fuel injection pump module and full fuel system overhaul
Full engine bay cleanup, rust-proofing, and sound deadening treatment
Custom dash integration and shifter compatibility
Transfer case rebuild with overhaul kit
Stock-height Terrafirma struts installed
Steering box reseal and sector bearing service
Brakes upgraded with drilled/slotted rotors
Alternator, starter, heater motor resistor, relays, senders, and full wiring refresh
Reverse, brake, and side marker lights upgraded to LED
Interior refinements: fuse holders, wire connectors, new terminals, quick disconnects
Repaired snorkel hole (fabrication, welding, paint blend)
Battery, heater hoses, gaskets, and fluid systems fully serviced
Full body repaint including bumpers and wheels
