Problems with a 5.3 into a 87 4x4

[87Chev4x4_5.3]

Hey guys,

I am in the process of swapping a 5.3 into an 87 Chevy 4x4. I am using the trans dapt motor mount plates with the stock clam shell styl mounts. The first problem I have run into is that if you drop the motor down on the stock mounts it is about 1.75" away from the trans. Not a huge deal, I will weld some plates on and drill some new holes to move the mounts back.

The second issue, potentially more serious is that the front of the motor is hitting the front crossmember. There is no way I will get the power steering bracket and pulley back on. Have any of you guys run into this? I can space the motor mounts up and move them back, I can also box out the front cross member, I just have not seen anyone else run into this so I am wondering if I am doing something wrong.

Any help would be appreciated!!

[farmtruc]

It's just gonna take some work to get the engine to sit in.
I used the Dirty Dingo the last two times and it worked great, check their mounts out, they are adjustable about 2" back and forth also.

[87Chev4x4_5.3]

I figured that, I will bust out the welder!! I'd rather set the motor back then move the tranny forward and deal with shortening the ds and the shifter linkage ect....

[92 6.0]

I have a buddy that put 6.0 in a 84 and I believe he had to notch the frame on that crossmember.

[87Chev4x4_5.3]

Cool, thanks for the info. I just wanted to have some kind of confirmation before I went and started cutting stuff up!!

[Texas82blazer]

I used the dirty dingo mounts on my 82 k5 and it bolted right to the trans. The oil pan clears the cross member. Had one little tab one the motor behind the accessory bracket that hit but trimmed it off and clears good now.

[jkade72]

What did you end up doing to get the motor in there?