Hi All,
Has anyone installed a
GM 4.3 Vortec Engine into their Bus?
What type of clearance do you have,
top and bottom?
What problems did you have with the installation?
Also, Does anyone have any thoughts on the 4.3 Compared to the 3.3 as far as
our application?
Torque, HP, ease of installation, costs, longevity?
thanks,
John C...verses

Subaru SVX:
Engine Specifications:
3.3 Liter 6 cylinder 24 valve DOHC Boxer engine.
230 horsepower @ 5400 rpm
Torque: 228 @ 4400 rpm
Sequential Multiport fuel injection with dual spray injectors
Platinum-tipped spark plugs
Computerized management system with "Limp Home feature," incl. over-rev
protection, monitors fuel injection and ignition.

Vortec 4300 4.3L V-6 Specifications

Displacement: 4300cc
Assembly Site: Romulus, Michigan
Horsepower: 190-195 hp @ 4400-4600 rpm
Torque: 250-260 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Applications: GMC Sierra/Chevrolet Silverado
Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma
GMC Safari/Savanna
Chevrolet Astro/Express
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John,
If you look at the weight of the two engines I think you'll find that the
GM motor is at least 100 pounds heavier.   Also, the GM motor is a bit of a
"boat anchor", it has decent torque, but not much performance.   The SVX
motor is more high-tech and a better motor.   I guess it boils down to:

Price...........the GM motor will probably be cheaper
Availablity.....GM's are everywhere in the USA
Dependability...it will depend on the condition of the motor you purchase,
but overall I think the Subaru comes out on top
Ease of installation....the Subaru fits in there like it was made for it.
The GM motor will take some work and maybe a box                  on top to
fit.   Makes it hard for folks that like to sleep in their vans.
Fabrication of parts to make it work........there are a couple sources for
SVX to Vanagon parts, but GM to Vanagon is scarce.
Resale..........I think you would have better resale with the SVX motor,
especially after you see one in a van (nice!).

This is just my opinion, but I've been studying the options for a few
years.   I installed a 2.2L Subaru motor in mine over 2 years ago and would
never go back, it's great.
Matt

Matsuwesty Adventures:  http//:home.earthlink.net/~matsuwesty
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