My '93 Burb has 200,000 miles on the origional 5.7, The tranny was replaced at 186,000, new fuel pump @ 190,000. Is it still in very good condition overall. The 5.7 does not burn any appreciably oil, but is getting a little sluggish.
I am thinking about replacing the engine with a rebuilt one that my trusty mechanic recommends, and give it a new paint job with new front grille and lights. Maybe even a painted front bumber instead of chrome. Also replace carpets, etc. I changed the AC to R134 with new compressor and filter just last month. It cools as good as my '01 Tahoe. (my brother-in-law is in the AC biz., cheap labor!!)
The most rad mod I am thinking about is replacing the rear axle with one that has disk brakes, say from a wrecked Burb or truck. What year did rear disks appear on GM trucks, and is it not too far fetched to try the swap?
The problems to resolve:
1.Will the track be the same width?- Will the u-joints match?
- Will the master brake cylinders and ABS system match?
- Is the wheel bolt pattern the same? (I'm too lazy to look all this shit up myself LOL)
The reason I want rear disks is because I want to put on 17" wheels, and feel I may need the extra stopping power.
Of course I will replace worn suspension and steering parts as well.
Comments, sugestions, hints, or razzes welcome.