Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) converting ETC 5 speed to ETH 6 speed

[darkhorse]

It looks like I have located a 2001 ETC 5 speed to replace my wrecked '01. 5 ETH 6 speed. Since I have all the undamaged running gear on my wreck I'd like to use them to convert the replacement truck. Are there any guides on engine swapping? Does the engine & transmission come out together? Does the PCM's need to be swapped. To convert to the disc brakes, is it best to swap the whole axel housing? I am sure there are a few other details but these are the major issues that come to mind. I'm just brain storming here. Is this even a practical idea? Any input from someone who's been down this road would be appreciated. Thanks.

Richard

 

[JamesSimpson]

I personally have done a few swaps. Mostly gasser stuff though. But good rule of thumb is swap large items not a whole lot of small ones. I personally would swap the entire axle for the rear disc brakes. Is your old trucks fron axle intact? If so I would swap it as well unless you have the same gears in the new one. ON the motor and transmission swap DO it all in one unit. Take the time to strip away all the front end f the old truck IE hood, fenders radiator support. You want to be able to see and get to everything on the motor. If I was to do this swap I would strip the front end all the way to the fire wall.



As for installing the motortranny into the new one. You could get away with just the hood, bumper radiator support and so on. You will have alittle more troublw getting at things with out stripping the truck to the fire wall like the other but it is do able and allot less to put back together.



When are you panning on doing this? Make sure you have plenty of room and lots of free time. Also BAG EVERYTHING AND LABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!! NOthing sucks more than trying to find that on little part. nut or bolt that you gotta have right that second or you gonna have to pull out and start all over #@$%!





Im sending you a PM as well.

 

[darkhorse]

Thanks for the good tips, James. Both trucks have the same 3. 54 axel ratio so I don't need to swap front ends. I'm still busted up from the accident & will be in my brace 'till the end of April. I'm hoping I can find a good shop to do the work while I'm recovering.

 

[KKlingbeil]

I think it way be way less work to just swap the transmission, clutch, and rear axle. Unless the new truck has tons of miles or some other engine problem, i dont think it would be worth the time to swap motors... Just my thoughts

 

[darkhorse]

I appreciate the input, Kevin. These are the factors I'm trying to size up. The motor in my wreck has about 2/3's less milage on it & does have a few mods that I would have to swap but I realize pulling that 1/2 ton block of iron is a big job.