4.3 donor?

[Coreshot]

I'm really starting to think about a motor swap, and would like to do a vortec 4.3. I know that vortecs started in '97, but is there a vehicle that came with more HP? I would like to start shopping around for wrecks. Thanks

 

[Caleb]

actually vortecs started in 94...BUT at that time it was only a valve cover change basically. there are so many different varieties of 4.3L its hard to say which one to get. I know if possible the ones out of the Extremes or Cyclones or something like that S-10s (the 2wd ones that come from the factory lowered, etc) have the most rated HP...

 

[mbryson]

actually vortecs started in 94...BUT at that time it was only a valve cover change basically. there are so many different varieties of 4.3L its hard to say which one to get. I know if possible the ones out of the Extremes or Cyclones or something like that S-10s (the 2wd ones that come from the factory lowered, etc) have the most rated HP...

$$$$$........very cool, though

 

[Hickey]

I'll sell ya the minivan, it is a '99 Vortec. But after you wheeled it once, you would sell your Toyota and bask in all the glory of ALL WHEEL DRIVE!!!!

Seriously though... 7K and it's yours...

 

[James K]

mine's a 94 CPI motor. says votec across the injection cover and across the valve covers.

 

[Hickey]

mine's a 94 CPI motor. says votec across the injection cover and across the valve covers.

Yours also looks just like the one in my van. I saw an S10 site that posted the HP numbers for the different years and the 97 up were all above 200hp while pre97 they were 170hp.

 

[Caleb]

Yours also looks just like the one in my van. I saw an S10 site that posted the HP numbers for the different years and the 97 up were all above 200hp while pre97 they were 170hp.

well pre vortec are listed about 170, in 94 when they get the neat valve cover they bump up to like 180 and then after 97 they are rated for 200-210 unless its the Xtreme and I'm not sure about it but I think its about 240...

 

[Hickey]

1988
GM introduced the 4.3 Liter V6.
Available engines included
a 92 HP / 134 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 150 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1989
Rear wheel anti-lock brakes introduced.
An electronic instrument cluster, a new speedometer and transfer case were also introduced.
Available engines included
a 92 HP / 134 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1990
The 5spd manual tranny and the 2.5L 4 cyl were improved.
The standard equipment was increased.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1991
A 4dr version of the Blazer and Jimmy was introduced in 2wd or 4wd. It arrived in Spring of 1990 as a 1991 model.
GM redesigned the grille so that it was one piece.
Four-door models get new Sport Package on the options list. It includes two-tone paint, alloy wheels and chrome trim.
A heavy-duty battery is standard on all models.
2wd Blazers can be equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels.
Front bench seat option will give four-door models six-passenger capacity.
Softer suspension available midyear with Tahoe LT trim.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin A or E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1992
Four-wheel ABS is standard on all models.
Electronic-shift transfer case is added to options list of 4WD models.
A high-performance 4.3-liter V6 debuts.
Bucket seats are redesigned, a new speedometer is installed, and a four-spoke steering wheel is added.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin A)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CPFI V6 (Vin Z).
1993
In 1993 they changed the grill slightly.
Two-door model available in LT trim.
All models get two-tone paint scheme in LT trim.
V6 engines get internal balance shaft designed to reduce vibration.
Automatic transmission receives electronic shift controls and second-gear start feature.
Manual lumbar adjusters are newly standard on front seats.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin A)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 165 HP / 235 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CPFI V6 (Vin Z).
1994
Side-door guard beams and a high-mount center brake light are added.
Front bench seat is now standard on four-door models.
GM discontinued the 2.8 Liter v6.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L MPFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 165 HP / 235 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CMFI V6 (Vin W).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CPFI V6 (Vin Z).
Second Generation
1995
All-new Blazer appears based on revamped S10.
S10 nomenclature is dropped, and full-size Blazer becomes Tahoe.
Four-wheel-drive models have electronic transfer case as standard equipment.
Spare tire on four-door model is mounted beneath cargo bay instead of in it.
Five different suspension packages are available.
All-wheel drive is optional.
Driver airbag and air conditioning are standard equipment.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L MPFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 155 HP / 235 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 191 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CMFI V6 (Vin W).
1996
More power from the base 4.3L
Available all-wheel drive.
5 new colors improve the 1996 Blazer.
A five-speed manual transmission is optional on two-door models.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 175 HP / 240 TQ (2wd), 180 HP / 240 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin W).
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
1997
Those who prefer a liftgate over a tailgate have that option on 1997 four-door Blazers.
A power sunroof is a new option for all Blazers.
Models equipped with LT decor are equipped with a HomeLink transmitter that will open your garage, among other things.
All-wheel drive Blazers get four-wheel disc brakes.
Automatic transmissions are revised for smoother shifting.
Early production 4WD two-door Blazers could be ordered with a ZR2 suspension package, but by the time we got pricing,
Chevrolet had cancelled the option.
Base Blazers get a chrome grille, while LT four-door models have body-color grilles in six exterior colors.
2 new paint colors round out the changes.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 175 HP / 240 TQ (2wd), 180 HP / 240 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin W).
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
1998
Blazer gets a nose job and an interior redesign.
New standard equipment includes a theft deterrent system, automatic headlight control, four-wheel disc brakes and dual airbags incorporating second-generation technology to reduce the bags' inflation force.
New radios, colors, and a column-mounted automatic shift selector round out the major changes.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 175 HP / 240 TQ (2wd), 180 HP / 240 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin W).
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
1999
Blazer gets automatic transmission improvements.
New exterior colors and larger outside mirrors.
4wd versions can be equipped with GM's AutoTrac active transfer case.
New power-seating features
Upgraded sound system options and available redundant radio controls in the steering wheel.
Vehicle content theft alarm, flash-to-pass headlamp feature, and a liftgate ajar warning lamp.
New TrailBlazer trim package is available on four-door versions, featuring monochrome paint with gold accents, unique aluminum wheels,
touring suspension and leather-lined interior.
Available engines included
a 120 HP / 140 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), a 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
Available trannies included
4spd auto /w overdrive (4L60-E) (gears 3.06, 1.62, 1.00, .70 Reverse - 2.29)
5spd manual /w overdrive (4cyl model) (gears 3.94, 2.37, 1.49, 1.00, .83 Reverse - 3.65)
5spd manual /w overdrive (6cyl model) (gears 3.49, 2.16, 1.40, 1.00, .78 Reverse - 3.55)


http://s-series.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=PostWrap&file=index&page=/history/history.htm

 

[Caleb]

1988
GM introduced the 4.3 Liter V6.
Available engines included
a 92 HP / 134 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 150 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1989
Rear wheel anti-lock brakes introduced.
An electronic instrument cluster, a new speedometer and transfer case were also introduced.
Available engines included
a 92 HP / 134 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1990
The 5spd manual tranny and the 2.5L 4 cyl were improved.
The standard equipment was increased.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1991
A 4dr version of the Blazer and Jimmy was introduced in 2wd or 4wd. It arrived in Spring of 1990 as a 1991 model.
GM redesigned the grille so that it was one piece.
Four-door models get new Sport Package on the options list. It includes two-tone paint, alloy wheels and chrome trim.
A heavy-duty battery is standard on all models.
2wd Blazers can be equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels.
Front bench seat option will give four-door models six-passenger capacity.
Softer suspension available midyear with Tahoe LT trim.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin A or E)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
1992
Four-wheel ABS is standard on all models.
Electronic-shift transfer case is added to options list of 4WD models.
A high-performance 4.3-liter V6 debuts.
Bucket seats are redesigned, a new speedometer is installed, and a four-spoke steering wheel is added.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin A)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 160 HP / 230 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CPFI V6 (Vin Z).
1993
In 1993 they changed the grill slightly.
Two-door model available in LT trim.
All models get two-tone paint scheme in LT trim.
V6 engines get internal balance shaft designed to reduce vibration.
Automatic transmission receives electronic shift controls and second-gear start feature.
Manual lumbar adjusters are newly standard on front seats.
Available engines included
a 105 HP / 135 TQ 2.5L "Iron Duke" TBI 4 cyl (Vin A)
a 125 HP / 150 TQ 2.8L TBI V6 (Vin R).
a 165 HP / 235 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CPFI V6 (Vin Z).
1994
Side-door guard beams and a high-mount center brake light are added.
Front bench seat is now standard on four-door models.
GM discontinued the 2.8 Liter v6.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L MPFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 165 HP / 235 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CMFI V6 (Vin W).
a 195 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CPFI V6 (Vin Z).
Second Generation
1995
All-new Blazer appears based on revamped S10.
S10 nomenclature is dropped, and full-size Blazer becomes Tahoe.
Four-wheel-drive models have electronic transfer case as standard equipment.
Spare tire on four-door model is mounted beneath cargo bay instead of in it.
Five different suspension packages are available.
All-wheel drive is optional.
Driver airbag and air conditioning are standard equipment.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L MPFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 155 HP / 235 TQ 4.3L TBI V6 (Vin Z).
a 191 HP / 260 TQ 4.3L CMFI V6 (Vin W).
1996
More power from the base 4.3L
Available all-wheel drive.
5 new colors improve the 1996 Blazer.
A five-speed manual transmission is optional on two-door models.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 175 HP / 240 TQ (2wd), 180 HP / 240 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin W).
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
1997
Those who prefer a liftgate over a tailgate have that option on 1997 four-door Blazers.
A power sunroof is a new option for all Blazers.
Models equipped with LT decor are equipped with a HomeLink transmitter that will open your garage, among other things.
All-wheel drive Blazers get four-wheel disc brakes.
Automatic transmissions are revised for smoother shifting.
Early production 4WD two-door Blazers could be ordered with a ZR2 suspension package, but by the time we got pricing,
Chevrolet had cancelled the option.
Base Blazers get a chrome grille, while LT four-door models have body-color grilles in six exterior colors.
2 new paint colors round out the changes.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 175 HP / 240 TQ (2wd), 180 HP / 240 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin W).
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
1998
Blazer gets a nose job and an interior redesign.
New standard equipment includes a theft deterrent system, automatic headlight control, four-wheel disc brakes and dual airbags incorporating second-generation technology to reduce the bags' inflation force.
New radios, colors, and a column-mounted automatic shift selector round out the major changes.
Available engines included
a 118 HP / 130 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 175 HP / 240 TQ (2wd), 180 HP / 240 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin W).
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
1999
Blazer gets automatic transmission improvements.
New exterior colors and larger outside mirrors.
4wd versions can be equipped with GM's AutoTrac active transfer case.
New power-seating features
Upgraded sound system options and available redundant radio controls in the steering wheel.
Vehicle content theft alarm, flash-to-pass headlamp feature, and a liftgate ajar warning lamp.
New TrailBlazer trim package is available on four-door versions, featuring monochrome paint with gold accents, unique aluminum wheels,
touring suspension and leather-lined interior.
Available engines included
a 120 HP / 140 TQ 2.2L SFI 4 cyl (Vin 4)
a 180 HP / 245 TQ (2wd), a 190 HP / 250 TQ (4wd) 4.3L CSFI V6 (Vin X).
Available trannies included
4spd auto /w overdrive (4L60-E) (gears 3.06, 1.62, 1.00, .70 Reverse - 2.29)
5spd manual /w overdrive (4cyl model) (gears 3.94, 2.37, 1.49, 1.00, .83 Reverse - 3.65)
5spd manual /w overdrive (6cyl model) (gears 3.49, 2.16, 1.40, 1.00, .78 Reverse - 3.55)


http://s-series.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=PostWrap&file=index&page=/history/history.htm

good info, but everywhere you look has different numbers for these engines. Also different options were rated at different HP (dont ask me why, I think its as funny as rating it for more HP cause of a new valve cover)...so to put a definative number on them like they have isn;t right...as a general rule I would agree with them though.

EDIT: That info is also just for S-10s...as they claim the 4.3L didn;t start till 88 when I know it started before that but not in S-10s...it was also carburated before then

 

[Hickey]

good info, but everywhere you look has different numbers for these engines. Also different options were rated at different HP (dont ask me why, I think its as funny as rating it for more HP cause of a new valve cover)...so to put a definative number on them like they have isn;t right...as a general rule I would agree with them though.

EDIT: That info is also just for S-10s...as they claim the 4.3L didn;t start till 88 when I know it started before that but not in S-10s...it was also carburated before then

Correct. This info is strictly for S10 Blazers. I haven't found a Chevy Astro van forum yet...

 

[Coreshot]

Thanks, guys. Looks like the newer the better.

 

[Hickey]

There are also lots of things you can do to them to bump the power. It's pretty easy to hit 275-300 with a 4.3 and keep it reliable.

 

[Coreshot]

There are also lots of things you can do to them to bump the power. It's pretty easy to hit 275-300 with a 4.3 and keep it reliable.

My plan is to go with a 700R4 to the dual toy t-cases, so I don't want to have too much HP, just wanna have enough. I know, never enough.

 

[PierCed_3]

There are also lots of things you can do to them to bump the power. It's pretty easy to hit 275-300 with a 4.3 and keep it reliable.

How can you boost the horsepower that high? I have a K&N filter, dual exhaust, roller rockers, the only thing I don't have is a chip.

If I got a chip would this make it better?

I have the 95 MPI Vortec with the 4L60E

 

[Get Me wired]

boost horsepower? - change the valve covers The 4.3 head has always been the vortex design the improvements over the years have been in the other air/fuel delivery components. The late 90's have some better intake manifold but in your case I think I would stay with what you have and maybe consider a different cam and focus on retuning your ECM.

chip? - you have one just reprogram it.

 

[muleskinner]

My plan is to go with a 700R4 to the dual toy t-cases, so I don't want to have too much HP, just wanna have enough. I know, never enough.

Why not go with a V8? you already have a V6....

 

[B-RAD]

Why not go with a V8? you already have a V6....

You Pu$$y Go Big Block GM crate 502/502 And if I see ya near my boat I shot first ask questions later.

 

[Coreshot]

Why not go with a V8? you already have a V6....

Because I don't want to have to deal with stuffing a V8 under the hood, and there's a big difference between the 130 or so horses I have now and the 200+ I'll have with a vortec.

 

[Coreshot]

You Pu$$y Go Big Block GM crate 502/502 And if I see ya near my boat I shot first ask questions later.

That big bugger would look sweet under my hood

 

[muleskinner]

Because I don't want to have to deal with stuffing a V8 under the hood, and there's a big difference between the 130 or so horses I have now and the 200+ I'll have with a vortec.

There's a bigger difference in the 300+ with a V8