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Thread: K10 6.5 diesel swap

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  1. #1
    Join Date
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    Smile K10 6.5 diesel swap

    Iv got a 1976 k10 with a 350 motor and and turbo 350 trans I am in the process of getting a 1995 z71 with a 6.5 diesel in it and I’m wanting to do a swap it’s got motor trans and everything but what would be the best way to do it keep my trans and bolt it on it or put that motor and trans in my truck?
    And what would I need to do the swap I have the donor truck but what issues will I run into and what would be the best way to do the swap?

  2. #2
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    Cool swap! I've done two diesel swaps into the old square body trucks myself: a 1977 K5 Blazer and a 1981 C20 truck.

    First off, for simplicity's sake, I would recommend swapping the engine only and converting it to a mechanical fuel injection pump. The 1995 model is equipped with an electronic DS4 injection pump that is problematic and requires a computer for the engine to run. You would have to swap the computer and complete wiring harness in order to make the engine run in its current configuration. However, a mechanical DB2 pump, such as used on 1993 and older engines, will be a direct bolt-on. You will need the injection pump and injection lines. This only requires one wire for operation. You will also need a throttle cable, since the original engine is drive-by-wire. Swap everything else from the engine compartment, including serpentine drive system and components, radiator, hydroboost brake system (since the diesel does not provide vacuum for the current gasoline engine equipped brake booster).

    I would also recommend using your existing 350 tranny and transfer case. Again, the transmission in the 1995 is computer controlled, and would be a hassle to make operate in the older truck. Also, the transfer case in the 1995 will have a driver's side output for the front shaft, whereas your K10 has a passenger side output.

    Casey
    1995 K1500 Tahoe 2 door, 6.5LTD, 4L80E, NP241, 3.42's, 285/75R16 BFG K02's; 1997 506 block; Kennedy OPS harness, gauges, Quick Heat plugs, and TD-Max chip; Dtech FSD on FSD Cooler; vacuum pump deleted, HX35 turbo, Turbo Master, 3.5" Kennedy exhaust, F code intake; dual t/stats, HO water pump, Champion radiator; Racor fuel filter

  3. #3
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    Hi
    So are either of the trucks 4X4?
    The first issue is the donor truck is computer controlled.
    So are you going to keep the computer,if so then you could use the trans from the donor truck.
    The 350 in the 76 will not last long behind the diesel without some work.If you are going to ditch the computer,then you should look for a Turbo 400 at least to put behind the diesel.If you are going to ditch the computer you will need to find a mechanical injection pump complete with lines.Your best bet will be to try and find one from a 92 6.5 which is a 4911 pump the lines are specific to the era pump.A pump from a 90's 6.2 will work with it's lines as well.The pump for the 6.5 is a little bigger.
    The nice thing is the motor mounts and bell housing are the same on GM's.
    You will need to find a good rad to put in the 76 i would spring for a aluminum racing one.
    That's a start,you will have to decide if you are going computer controlled or not.Going computer controlled will be a lot of work,and quite frankly you will end up with a frankin truck with inherent troubles.
    Going Mechanical injection will simplify the swap.
    And you should spend a little time on the donor engine to make sure it is worth the effort to give it a new home.
    90 Chev 3500 c/c 4x4,6.2na,400 auto,4:10 gears.DSG Timing gears,main girdle, isspro tach, pyro,boost,oil and trany temp.Dual Tstats, High volume peninsular pump,on shelf, Custom turbo and intercooler 85%complete. Change of plans for the dually, it's going to get a Cummins. Both trucks are Blue 90 4x4 crews

  4. #4
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    Angry .

    Both trucks are 4wd and what years did they not have computers?
    And where can I get one of those mechanical injection systems?

  5. #5
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    Quote Originally Posted by ajprui1567 View Post
    Both trucks are 4wd and what years did they not have computers?
    1994-2000 6.5L, electronic computer control
    1992-1993 6.5L, mechanical
    1982-1991 6.2L, mechanical

    The 6.2L and 6.5L are very similar, and the external parts such as injection pumps will swap between them. The 6.2L injection pumps are calibrated for less fuel delivery than the 6.5L, but the difference isn't that great.

    Lots of places to purchase mechanical systems. For new, start by checking with some of The Diesel Page supporters:

    http://www.thedieselpage.com/vendors/main.htm

    You will also find lots of used items on eBay, etc. Just beware when purchasing used, as you can't tell what condition the pump will be in. Factor in the cost of having the pump remanufactured just to be safe.

    Casey
    1995 K1500 Tahoe 2 door, 6.5LTD, 4L80E, NP241, 3.42's, 285/75R16 BFG K02's; 1997 506 block; Kennedy OPS harness, gauges, Quick Heat plugs, and TD-Max chip; Dtech FSD on FSD Cooler; vacuum pump deleted, HX35 turbo, Turbo Master, 3.5" Kennedy exhaust, F code intake; dual t/stats, HO water pump, Champion radiator; Racor fuel filter

  6. #6
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    If I do chose to go with the computer how much work would it be putting it in? Like where would I hook things up? What all would have to be done to be able to use everything from the 1995 truck?

  7. #7
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    Quote Originally Posted by ajprui1567 View Post
    If I do chose to go with the computer how much work would it be putting it in? Like where would I hook things up? What all would have to be done to be able to use everything from the 1995 truck?
    My advice: don't even think about it. Those of us with the factory electronic systems dream of replacing them with the mechanical systems. The DS4 has its share of issues, such as a PMD (pump mounted driver / AKA fuel solenoid driver) that has a rather short life span, and is a few hundred dollars every time it needs replaced.

    Casey
    1995 K1500 Tahoe 2 door, 6.5LTD, 4L80E, NP241, 3.42's, 285/75R16 BFG K02's; 1997 506 block; Kennedy OPS harness, gauges, Quick Heat plugs, and TD-Max chip; Dtech FSD on FSD Cooler; vacuum pump deleted, HX35 turbo, Turbo Master, 3.5" Kennedy exhaust, F code intake; dual t/stats, HO water pump, Champion radiator; Racor fuel filter

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