Not sure where to start if I swap

[PaintedRat]

I\'m trying to collect information before I decide I want to do a v8 swap. I haven\'t bought the JTR manual yet, but that will be next paycheck.



I bought a 97 4Dr 4x4 Blazer with the 4.3. I\'m in Cali, so I think I need to go with a 350 Vortec for emissions crap. I\'ve been browsing the threads to find someone who has done a similar vehicle, but I haven\'t found much info. Is the swap pretty much the same as the earlier years? Does a 350 Vortec use the same SBC mounts as older 350s? I\'ll be adding a suspension lift after Christmas too. With the lift, can I get away without relocating the oil filter?



I\'m not going to be racing, I just want more power with reliability and longevity. My dad and I will be doing this as a family project, and he\'s an old school motorhead. Any suggestions would be awesome.

[JayDee]

In California the engine must be the same year or newer complete with all electronic

engine management equipment.(Computer,sensors,harness,etc.)

It is explained very well in the book, primarily

because the author is also in CA.

The lift kit should make the filter relocation unecessary. An awful lot of work to avoid a fairly simple job, tho. The lift also won\'t help

your \"reliability and longevity\".

The mounts will work.

You will have no choice regarding exhaust. To meet the letter of the law you will need to use the manifolds that came on the engine.

You might be able to put headers on at a later date, but trying to get the swap and headers

approved by C.A.R.B., at the same time would be a nightmare. Again, the book goes into detail on all this.

Best of luck on your project.