Auto Parts: 1997 Chevy 3500, chevy 3500, frame rails

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1997 Chevy 3500 crewcab 4X4 with a 7.4L Vortek engine.  I am trying to find out what engine is compatible, as far as bolting up correctly and the fuel injection lines being the same without changing a bunch of stuff over.  The transmission is automatic.  Thanks for your time.

ANSWER: Hi Lisa,

The 7.4L (454cid) is the only engine that will bolt-up to your transmission. If you replace the engine AND transmission together, you can plant whatever you wish in-between those frame rails. 5.7 or the 7.4 were all listed as optional in 1997 for the 3500 series as well as a 6.5L turbo-diesel.

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
"Re-use is the best form of recycling" Help us recycle by purchasing used parts from us!
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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Would I have to change any computerized programs to change this engine over to the 6.5L turbo-diesel?  Also is there any other year of engine that would be compatible?  We appreciate all of your knowledge.  Thanks,  Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa,

I think I was more-or-less just being rhetorical when I mentioned that you'd be able to change them out as a unit. You got it right. You'd practically have to strip your truck down to a cab and chassis in order to change it from a gasoline drivetrain to a diesel. There are just way too many things to change that it makes it impractical. You'd be better off looking for a diesel equipped model instead of changing that one over.

Sorry if my original answer was a little misleading.

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
"Re-use is the best form of recycling" Help us recycle by purchasing used parts from us!
Looking for an ASE Certified shop near you? ASE Certified Technicians are the BEST of the BEST!
Click here: http://www.ase.com/bluesealsearch/locator.php