havent been on lately, internet got shut off. but in response to this statement. the cab of the S10 weighs more than the 54 cab. so this truck is actually going to be quite abit lighter.
The 2.5 should be just fine. I've got a 99 extended cab with the 2.2 and a 5 speed, when I rolled it across the scales at the dragstrip I was shocked to see 3595 come up on the read out, that's with me out of the truck. My old truck was a 91 with the 2.5, it made quite abit more power then the 2.2.
There's a local guy I see at shows with a '35-ish Ford set on an S10. Even used the S10 cluster in it, kept the 4-banger (looks like it's a computer carb version). That's the biggest issue I see for yours - if you go to the trouble to eliminate the computer, you still have an electronic speedometer to deal with. If you're careful and label everything, removing the wiring harness should be a snap. Most GM harnesses are modular - there's a section to the lights and horn, a section to the engine controlls, and the fuse block unbolts and unplugs at the firewall, where there's a primary inside the cab harness and on vehicles with power toys (seat, windows, etc) there's another secondary harness to control them. Save yourself some bucks on the U-joint, scare up a 79-96 full size van column, they have at least two U-joints in them factory. Might have to shorten parts of it, but you also might be able to run the shaft into the stock '54 column jacket and keep it stock inside.
Hi Guys, I'm new on here and have been reading alot of threads. I stumbled across your posts about putting the s10 2.5L in your ad style swap. I also intend on trying this on my 53 gmc. I was watching a build online where some guy from nova scotia was doing it & it looked pretty neat except for the engine sat so far forward, I was wondering how far back you would have to move the engine to get decent clearance for the fan & rad. or is it o.k. to move the rad. that far forward? Any pics of this type of swap would be greatly appreciated!
The key with 4-bangers and exhaust note is resonators. They need them to eliminate the horrible lawnmower/swarm of angry bees noises. It's the tinny high-ranges that kill the sound quality. Also, with *most* 4 pots, the intake sounds MUCH better than the exhaust. Keep the exhaust quiet and open up the intake. Or just leave it alone so you aren't broadcasting your stingy powertrain to the world As for the harness, like others have said putting it in the old body is pretty cake. Just be aware if you go carb, you may need a new trans. If it's computer controlled anyway. Also, make sure the trans has a boss for a speedo cable if you want the older gauge cluster. I'm 99% sure that even GM was using a VSS by '91.
might be the 2.2 you are thinking of, they are junk, s10 or sunfire version. the 2.5 is a hoss, not alot of power but indestructible. my friend did things with his, that are just unbelievable. it aired up may flat tires.