8.1 vortec in a 1994 chevy dually

[Lvnspeed]

I have a 1994 dually with a TBI 454. The motor is a mess I meas a MESS. I was wondering if I could do a 8.1 in the truck. I know motor install wont be an issue I already have a 4L80e. The problem I see if the wiring harnesses. How do I adapt the 8.1 to work in my truck? will it shift my tranny? Any Advice will be appreciated. Oh yea I did a search still came up empty

[straightaxle]

You probably could put the 8.1 in there but it won't be a cheap swap and there is really not much available for the 8.1. If you want a late model engine do a 6L. I would get your 454 rebulit with a good set of heads, a carb and a regular distributor. It would run like a champ, and wouldn't put you in the poor house

[thArf]

since you have a 94 you will need a newer style tranny.

best bet would be to pull a 6.0/4l80e combo with harness and tcase. i would go pre 04 so you dont have to mess with electronic throttle. i bet you can find the whole takeout for 2-3 grand.

the 8.1 harness is more complicated because its supposed to mate to an allison tranny so you're going to have a lot of work ahead of you. theres a guy on another forum who had this done by a pro shop and it took 3.5 months.

i would not suggest to rebuild the 454, it would not be worth the effort.

you'll also need a bigger fuel system than what the 94 has.