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Duramax Conversion...?

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Old 08-15-2009 | 02:41 PM
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Default Duramax Conversion...?

I have once again changed my mind as to what I want to do to my Suburban. I currently have the Vortec 454 and have been talking with Trick in order to build a custom turbo set up. On the other had, I have an opportunity to pick up a Duramax LBZ, wiring harness, etc. and can either keep my 4L80E transmission or swap in an Allison 6 speed. Which way should I go?
Old 08-15-2009 | 09:28 PM
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allison 6 speed dmax will blow that 4l80 apart and sweet swap
Old 08-16-2009 | 03:17 AM
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Dmax ftw!!
Old 08-16-2009 | 12:29 PM
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Id plan on getting a near complete donor truck for the swap, many have said a d-max swap can cost upwards of 10 grand
Old 08-16-2009 | 12:39 PM
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Pick up the allison. The only time I know of duramax 4l80e combos is in vans and they're really detuned, probly so the trans can stay together LOL.
Old 08-16-2009 | 02:39 PM
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Stock for stock,454 Vortec will out tow a Dmax all day long.You will have to spend a few thousand $$$'s to get the Dmax close to the 454 in towing.Even when u mod the Dmax,it will still not hang with a stock 454 Vortec when pulling heavy loads(8k+).....
Old 08-16-2009 | 03:48 PM
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i thought an allison wont clear the trans tunnel on the suburbans, thats why the burbans and avalances with the 8.1 get the 4l80 and the trucks get the allison. The newer 3/4 and 1 tons have a taller frame, acts like a body lift in a way and has the clearance for the ally. Correct me if im wrong
Old 08-16-2009 | 03:57 PM
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Originally Posted by broke1
Stock for stock,454 Vortec will out tow a Dmax all day long.You will have to spend a few thousand $$$'s to get the Dmax close to the 454 in towing.Even when u mod the Dmax,it will still not hang with a stock 454 Vortec when pulling heavy loads(8k+).....
You need to lay off the crack, or give me some because it must be some good ****.

There isnt a gas engine out there stock for stock that will out tow a dmax or even come close.

With a town tune my truck puts down almost 800rwtq through 35s, please show me a tuned 454 that can even put down 400rwtq
Old 08-16-2009 | 05:13 PM
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I also have a Dmax if you want one. I like the turbo idea myself. The dmax swap to make it right would require a complete donor truck, To make your AC, vents, windows, locks gauges etc. The allison will fit but you will need a saw, welder, more material etc. That is one HUGE freaking tranny. As far as the 80 goes in a racing set up it will hold up, in a pulling contest not sure. Did I mention I would do the turbo.
Old 08-16-2009 | 05:39 PM
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Guy in iceland built a Dmax suburban, 90's body style. It was pretty cool.

http://www.4x4offroads.com/suburban-...las-gears.html


I see a major benefit of fuel mileage from the Dmax that the 454 wont be able to do. My 94 454 burb never got better then 14 mpg, neither did my neighbors 99. I think a body lift is really all that is needed to clear the allison. But like was mentioned earlier, better be ready to come off some serious money to get everything working right.


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