Diesel swap into '89 Chevy 1500 2WD
 

I'm looking to swap a diesel into my '89 Chevy as a project and am hoping to produce 800-1000hp for some track use. I'm new to the cummins world as I've been a loyal fan of GM trucks. With that said, it seems that using a duramax for this project may prove too much of a hassle for my likings with the electrical obstacles. I realize it's been done before but I'd like to know where I'd stand using a 12v instead. Which 12v should I use and what major issues might I run into? Is that much power attainable in 12v without having having to replace the crank and pistons while still being reliable? I've heard an allison will bolt up to a 12v without any extensive modifications. Is that true or should I look elsewhere for a built tranny? Thanks ahead for any input!

Taylor

Your best bet will definitly be a cummins however you might be better off with a 24 valve with a p-pump conversion if you are looking to get the much hp. But first off with the 12 valve (same for the 24) you need to realize that your torque number will be almost double you hp. Once you get over 500-600hp you will really start to loose driveability and you will start breaking everything. 2wd is a good start for high hp because you can throw a 14 bolt in the rear and dont need to worry about a transfer case blowing up. The 12 valve can make that power, as long as it's a p-pump (94-98) it doesnt matter. You will need to do twins to get that power along with a cam, modded p-pump and some head work along with the usual stuff. You could do a big single but it will not be very road friendly. I would go on over to cummins forum and read the beginner tech stickies they will give you a good idea where to start. Any transmission you put behind that much power will need to be built

Thanks for your input!