6.0 to 8.1 engine swap?

[xsivspeed454]

Hey,
I have a 2002 2500HD with a 6.0 in it. I am seriously debating dropping in an 8.1 out of a 2500 avalanche or a 2500 suburban. Has anyone here done this? Just wondering if there is anything I should be aware of before any purchasing of an engine or anything else. I am going to try to stick with an 01 or 02 8.1 due to the whole drive by wire/ cable changeover with the 2003 and newer 8.1 engines. The other reason I am going with a suburban/avalanche engine is because I hve a 4l80e in my truck that i just beefed up a year ago and as far as i know, the suburbans and avalanches came with the 4l80e as well. If I was able to get a complete parts truck a 2001 or 2002 2500hd or 3500 with and 8.1/allison combo, will i need to do anything other than reprogram my PCM for the engine/trani swap. I've also read that the engine mounts out of the suburbans/avalanches are different but I haven't confirmed this. Let me know any input you have.

[Frenchy]

Just don't. Swapping form a 8.1 to 6.0 sure, but going to 8.1 from 6.0 will be a considerable let down. Take the cash you'd spend on the swap and invest it into the 6.0 and you will be much happier.

[WARLOCK]

One question Y? 8.1 is a gas hog and the 6.0 has plenty of potential. Get a tune, headers, and cold air. If thats not enough power. Do a cam swap.

[xsivspeed454]

Well, in my 6.0 I have a hypertech programmer installed which didn't make a lot of difference as far as I am concerned. I have a K&N FIPK cold air kit, and borla exhaust. I haul trailers occasionally but primarily work the engine when I am plowing snow. I don't care about fuel mileage because I only drive about 8000 miles a year. I'm only pulling about 10 mpg average. I am an ASE master tech that works at my family owned shop so as far as cost, Labor is FREE. The reason I am considering this is because #1 a diesel is too much money, and #2 the torque of the stock 8.1 is awesome.

[foggy]

look into a supercharger.

[xsivspeed454]

I looked into a charger but they are $6000. To be honest, I really haven't looked into investing moiney into my 6.0 as far as a cam or even a stroker kit if they are available. The bottom line is that I need more low end torque then a stock 6.0offers. Any recommendations on upgrades on the 6.0 that aren't going to cost $6000? I don't plan on doing anything for less then $2500 bucks or so but don't want to get too crazy with it either. I just was thinking an 8.1 swap because it would be a drop in and gor for somewhere around $3000, but if you guys know of better options for my 6.0 i'm definitely open to suggestions.

[WARLOCK]

First off get a Nelson tune....Nelson Performance - Performance without Sacrificing Drivability

That hypertech is CRAP

[keniff]

6.0
milled heads 10:5:1 compression
220/224 on 113lsa or 222/226 custom cam
2800-3000 stall
custom tune
pacesetter LTs
CAI

[WARLOCK]

I agree....Tune, Headers, and a cam.

Another thing you might consider. What gears are you running?

[Frenchy]

408.