Thread: "Eco-El-Camino"
View Single Post
Old 06-27-2012, 12:54 PM   #9 (permalink)
Big Dave
Master EcoModder
 
Big Dave's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Steppes of Central Indiana
Posts: 1,319

The Red Baron - '00 Ford F-350 XLT
90 day: 27.99 mpg (US)

Impala Phase Zero - '96 Chevrolet Impala SS
90 day: 21.03 mpg (US)
Thanks: 0
Thanked 186 Times in 127 Posts
From the standpoint of being easily within the capabilities of a hot-rodder used to engine swaps, and getting the desired MPG I would:

1) Lose the gas engine and automatic
2) Find a GM 6.2 liter diesel A 6.5 is dimensionally the same but a bit heavier
3) Get the T-56 transmission out of a Camaro. Junk yards are full of them.
4) With the T-56 either a 3.08 or 2.73 rear axle ratio will work.
5) Upgrade front springs/shocks to accommodate the heavier (~700 lb) engine.

Bingo! You're over 30 MPG. Its mostly a bolt-up although you may have to fabricate new motor mount brackets.

You'll probably want to keep the engine NA, but if you have room, Banks makes a good and monkey-proof turbo kit for the 6.2.
__________________
2000 Ford F-350 SC 4x2 6 Speed Manual
4" Slam
3.08:1 gears and Gear Vendor Overdrive
Rubber Conveyor Belt Air Dam
  Reply With Quote