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85 3/4 ton suburban needs a 7.3!

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Old 03-27-2010, 09:23 AM
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Default 85 3/4 ton suburban needs a 7.3!

I was wondering if anyone could help with my project I'm seriously considering? I've looked high and low for kits but just can't seem to find anything. Here is what we a got a 1985 3/4 ton chevy suburban and I want to do a swap and put a 2002 7.3 powerstroke in, also the tranny, front and rear ends. If anyone can direct me in the right direction or help out in anyway it will be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
 
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Old 03-27-2010, 10:37 AM
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It would be a lot easier and a lot less work to use a 12v Cummins. Do you have the donor truck already or something ?
 
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Old 03-28-2010, 07:44 AM
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Yes, I understand the 12 valve would be easier, but I just love 7.3 powertrokes!!!
 
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Old 03-28-2010, 08:33 PM
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the only way i would do it is with a 12valve to much involved with that new of a motor
 
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Old 03-28-2010, 09:32 PM
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Originally Posted by Tireman
Yes, I understand the 12 valve would be easier, but I just love 7.3 powertrokes!!!
You should really reconsider.....the 12v has no electronics......plug and play.....get it mounted in there and hook up the throttle cable...4wheel and off road did an article on a suburban with a 12v a few years back....you might be able to find it
 
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Old 03-29-2010, 09:42 AM
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You guys have got me reconsidering, i'll see if I can find that article, what kind of mechanical changes do I need to do to the 12 valve to open it up a bit,I'm not looking for axle snapping power but better economy and a pulling rig, so a moderate build with the option of turning it up from time to time. I've heard I need to change the fuel pump and injectors before I can chip the 12 valve, any suggestions are welcome!
Thanks!
 
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Old 03-29-2010, 09:59 AM
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You can not chip a 12v
 
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Old 03-29-2010, 10:29 AM
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well I'm pretty new to the idea of the 12 valve so what other options do I have as far as power mods?
 
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Old 03-29-2010, 10:34 AM
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Whatever power your looking for a 12V can do it. You can get to 500 hp cheaper than any engine. The expense comes from the supporting mods (transmission, turbo(s), and headstuds and o-ringing).

The best place to start is to grab a drink or two and start reading the 12V performance forum.

https://www.dieselbombers.com/5-9l-1...s-aftermarket/

Theres no denying that the 7.3 is a good engine - but a mechanical Cummins engine is much better, will last longer, is easier to swap, is cheaper and easier to mod, and likely is much more reliable.
 

Last edited by Dr. Evil; 03-29-2010 at 10:43 AM.
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Old 03-29-2010, 11:23 AM
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I have found one already, its wrecked, but has around 60,000 miles on it for the whole drive train how much should I buy it for? Its a 98, should I go older? The asking price is $5500. I have all the tools I'm going to need for the fabrications Just wondering if anyone can give me insight on how long it may take to do this swap?
Thanks!
 


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