Too much extra work for no reason imo. Plus the only way to get the 6l80 you want is in a 5.3 truck, the 4.3s and 4.8s never got them.

 

geez been doing some more research and apparently the going from a 2WD to a 4WD setup is possible but is a lot of work, and im not adding that to my list. So it seems the best bet is to find a high mileage 4x4 with a 4.8/5.3 and use that as the base for this project.

 

sorry for the offtopic question, but could you explain what the AFM lifters and what the problems were please?

 

AFM/DOD. you need to change the lifters to run a non AFM/DOD cam. Which causes you to have more money in the lifters, head gaskets, head bolts.


The LS3 will need the oil pan, pick up tube, crank pulley, and your acc to work. Also you would run into some trouble with the intake possibly.

5.3/6spd 4wd is the way to go, then put the 5.3 in the garage and save it for a rainy day.

 

Why not go with a 2wd and add an air locker? If your ony ging to do some occassional "light" offroading, only one set of gears to buy then! Also why not a standard tranny? Then really mix it up and put the setup in a '65 shortbox!