Engine compatibility

[Dieselguy123]

Hey all, Ive got a 98 k1500 4x4 5.7 vortec, motor took a crap and I am wondering if an older shortblock can be put in there. I know that The vortec motor is externally balanced and If i am not mistaken the older ones are internal. What are my options here. Can one just swap over the heads and intake and all the vortec stuff to an older block. Thanks for the help.

 

[PackRat]

A 5.7 Vortec has much more in common with a pre-vortec SB, than a later Vortec(5.3, 6.0)
Alot of people put Vortec heads on early blocks. The trick is using a compatible intake.

 

[Dieselguy123]

Would the factory efi manifold work. What about the camshaft.....Doesnt the vortec have roller cam and lifters?

 

[4play]

the main difference in vortecs are the heads, look at where the intake bolts are and how they mount and compare to old. the throttle body heads are very similar to carb heads but the center bolt on them is different too. they are or should be roller on the vortec.