Best 5.3 donor vehicle

[toad]

Well my build http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?t=147740 has reached the drivetrain point.

Aside from being ripped off on a rear brake conversion from these guys http://www.steeltechsolutions.com/REAR_DISC_PAGE_CODE.html(web site works but the phone is disconected and have not been able to get a response on email after I placed an order) everyting has gone smoothly.

Here is where I need to tap into the collective knowlege of the IFSJA world.

1. Do I go the donor vehicle route and have engine, tranny, tcase, engine wireing harness and asst other sundrys (fuel stuff connections and sensors) all together. I live in a nice subdivision, but we dont have a HOA, I love being the neighborhood "Billy" :cool: I am sure the neighbors won't mind a wrecked vehicle in the drive for a few weeks. If so what vehicle is gonna fit my needs the best?

2. Do I just source the asst stuff piece work thru local scrap yards and flea-bay (This one may be tough for me since I work ALOT, I work on the project alot but aways at night, I dont sleep much:rolleyes: )

3. or do I grab up one of the pre-prepped 5.3l engines with ecu and harness ready to go (pricy but easy)

My mechanical ability (I think) is up to task on any of the above options, I also am a firm believer in working smarter not harder. i.e. learn from others experience.

Any input or sources would be appreciated.

Thanks
Daren

[scram-man]

I bought my 5.3 with 4L60e harness ECU and all accessories for less than 2K from an auto recycler.
A-Z autoparts 405-769-9176 ask for Chad (if he's still there)

They are in Tulsa I believe but will ship frieght anywhere. That price was shipped BTW.

T/C depends on drivers vs passenger drop. So go from there.


Well my build http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?t=147740 has reached the drivetrain point.

Aside from being ripped off on a rear brake conversion from these guys http://www.steeltechsolutions.com/REAR_DISC_PAGE_CODE.html(web site works but the phone is disconected and have not been able to get a response on email after I placed an order) everyting has gone smoothly.

Here is where I need to tap into the collective knowlege of the IFSJA world.

1. Do I go the donor vehicle route and have engine, tranny, tcase, engine wireing harness and asst other sundrys (fuel stuff connections and sensors) all together. I live in a nice subdivision, but we dont have a HOA, I love being the neighborhood "Billy" :cool: I am sure the neighbors won't mind a wrecked vehicle in the drive for a few weeks. If so what vehicle is gonna fit my needs the best?

2. Do I just source the asst stuff piece work thru local scrap yards and flea-bay (This one may be tough for me since I work ALOT, I work on the project alot but aways at night, I dont sleep much:rolleyes: )

3. or do I grab up one of the pre-prepped 5.3l engines with ecu and harness ready to go (pricy but easy)

My mechanical ability (I think) is up to task on any of the above options, I also am a firm believer in working smarter not harder. i.e. learn from others experience.

Any input or sources would be appreciated.

Thanks
Daren