Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

The original 2.8 in my 87 blazer blew, well not totally blown but knockin really really bad and its not drivable in that condition, assuming its a good motor like the guy said i got a deal on another 2.8 for $50, I dont wanna drop it in and then 5,000 miles down the road be doin another engine swap so what is my best option for the new engine?

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

Make sure you get an 87 or newer block - they have bigger main bearings. Or you could go for a 3.1L out of a Camaro. Also, keep in mind these motors have flat tappet cams and need the higher zinc oils.

How many miles do you have on your current 2.8?

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

272319 miles

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

Ouch! Time for new bearings! You can turn the crank for new bearings. Install new bearings on the rods and you can drive it until it is really toast.

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

Will everything off the 2.8 bolt onto the 3.1. Also do they make any performance upgrades for the 2.8 or 3.1 such as alum. heads, cams, valve springs,etc. Ive always wanted a 200-300 horespower 2.8 dont know if its possible. If it is let me know

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

X2 I'm with michaelnolimit on that question, I'd love a powerful and still very reliable 2.8 or even a 3.1

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

when you put a 3.1 in place of a 2.8 you need to swap intakes, then its a direct bolt in. a 3.1 is basically a stroked 2.8. there are some performance parts out there for these little motors but they are limited. I've seen over at s10forums a supercharged 2.8.

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

3.1 is the only way to go.

any front wheel drive 3.1 will work

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

OR, you could swap in a 3.4L from a Camaro/Firebird and then run a 4.3L throttle body.

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

Thats what I plan on doing. I got a 3.4 out of my friends 95 camero. I am planning on re-building it with a few goodies and then dropping it in. And on the throttle body, you dont have to run a 4.3 throttle body, you just need the injectors off of one.

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

No you don't need to run one, but it is better too. Reason, the 4.3 and up have bigger air intake holes(tech name slips my mind. You actually need to cut out the intake to match the holes in the TB. This is a trick you can do to get the 2.8 to breath better.
There is alot of info on these swaps over at s10forum.com. But be for warned. guys over there aren't as nice and respectable as the guys over here.

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

I know its better to run a 4.3 throttle body, I was just stating you dont have to. And your right about the S10forum, a lot different then this forum.

Re: Need advice on the best way to build a reliable 2.8
 

Great info guys, will any late model V6 bolt up to the stock trans?