93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 journeyman | OP journeyman Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 | I'm wanting to replace the frame and engine on my 93 "Short" van...I believe 110 inch wheelbase. However, I want to replace it with newer, upgraded Chevy parts....hopefully 2010 or newer. I know a lot of folks on here will not agree with me and want to keep it original. But, anyone that has helpful input, advice, or experience...PLEASE HELP!
"I don't know why, it's the same reason why you like some music and you don't like others. There's something about it that you like. Ultimately I don't find it's in my best interests to try and analyze it, since it's fundamentally emotional." - Jerry Garcia | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 102 Likes: 1 member | member Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 102 Likes: 1 | Pretty sure that these vans are unibody. | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Nov 2013 Posts: 3,692 Likes: 32 pooh-bah | pooh-bah Joined: Nov 2013 Posts: 3,692 Likes: 32 | Pretty sure that these vans are unibody. Correct. His '93 Chevy G20 is a uni-body. 1996 and up are full frame-on-body vehicles. | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 journeyman | OP journeyman Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 | Ok, not a problem. I've decided I just want to update the drivetrain, engine/transmission. If anyone has any experience with that, I'd appreciate the advice!
"I don't know why, it's the same reason why you like some music and you don't like others. There's something about it that you like. Ultimately I don't find it's in my best interests to try and analyze it, since it's fundamentally emotional." - Jerry Garcia | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Apr 2016 Posts: 132 member | member Joined: Apr 2016 Posts: 132 | 2010 is an LS Swap. Hot Rod Garage did an LS swap on you tube. This is probably not a project that someone posting basic questions on a forum should tackle, it's up to you. I don't think anyone here will care if you keep it stock or not so you don't have to worry there. An easier project you can upgrade the 93 computer to a better 94-95 ecm and keep the TBI. The later style v8 vortec heads up to 2002 can be fitted, even try burning your own chips if you're up for a challenge. The 4l60e can be upgraded to 2001 and later 4l65e specs. All it takes is time and lots of money. | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 journeyman | OP journeyman Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 | Don, You are the man I need to be talking to! Yes, basic questions...but I have a pretty vast knowledge with other mechanical work...electric, just so-so. But, luckily, you responded and seem to know the steps I need to take to make this project work.
Just to give you a quick background on why I want to do this project...its purely sentimental. My dad past away a few years ago, left me all of his tools, never got to rebuild a car/truck/van together, and now its my goal to do a rebuild with his tools. We rebuilt mixers, extruders, and everything in between, for Firestone, Goodyear, etc, etc. So, I feel I can tackle this "machine"...just need to learn more about it! THANK YOU!
"I don't know why, it's the same reason why you like some music and you don't like others. There's something about it that you like. Ultimately I don't find it's in my best interests to try and analyze it, since it's fundamentally emotional." - Jerry Garcia | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 journeyman | OP journeyman Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 | My transmission (4l60E) is pretty new and, for now, I'd like to avoid having to do much to it. My cam and lifters are going out in this 4.3 V6...and the power is horrible. I want to replace it with a V8 that will mount to my current transmission, simple/best options. I am fine with a small block V8, if that is recommended.
"I don't know why, it's the same reason why you like some music and you don't like others. There's something about it that you like. Ultimately I don't find it's in my best interests to try and analyze it, since it's fundamentally emotional." - Jerry Garcia | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Oct 2013 Posts: 282 Likes: 18 enthusiast | enthusiast Joined: Oct 2013 Posts: 282 Likes: 18 | Keep it simple.
These vans are unibody so no frame to replace. Might need patched up but...? A small block Chevy should bolt up to your modern trans. Does your van require a smog check in KC? Might have to keep it a six...? Go to a junkyard, there should be plenty Chevy trucks with 350s in em. You might even find another G20. Strip that van for parts like radiator, alternator, water pump, hoses, pulleys, linkage, brackets, etc. Find a 350 and rebuild it for moderate duty. Skip the LS swap.
Put it all back together and you will be on the road in a month or two.
Keep it simple. | | | Re: 93 Chevy G20 Modifications | Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 journeyman | OP journeyman Joined: Aug 2012 Posts: 50 | Thank you for that! Would a smaller block, something smaller than 350, work as well? Is a Vortex V6 even worth looking into?
"I don't know why, it's the same reason why you like some music and you don't like others. There's something about it that you like. Ultimately I don't find it's in my best interests to try and analyze it, since it's fundamentally emotional." - Jerry Garcia | | |
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