i would just do a 6.0, more common and parts are cheaper.

- dirty dingo makes motor mounts ( idk about the 8.1 though )
- i used my factory radiator but you can swap one in from the donor truck
- nelson performance for a harness and to send ur pcm to remove the vats ( security ) out of it http://www.nelsonperformance.com/products.htm#eh
- walboro 255 in tank pump will work
- you can update the dash to a 97/98 just takes some work http://www.gmt400.com/forum/showthre...OBS)-dash-swap more threads like this just gotta look around
- everything on the inside will still work the newer motor will work off a stand alone harness not tied into anything else but the gauges


also look here http://www.ls1truck.com/forums/lsx-t...onversion.html

8.1 imo is a waste of money 6.0 will be way more budget friendly for finding swap parts ect...