I’m looking for feedback on what would be the biggest engine that would fit in this vehicle for an engine swap. I want to put in a 4WD system with a manual transmission. Now I know I would need different axels and to cut a hole in the floor for the clutch and shifter. Is this even possible to do? I bought this truck at an auction and the body is in very good condition. Would a transfer case fit underneath the body? Being that it is a 2WD system..??

*ps there is nothing wrong with the truck or engine. It only has 66k on it. My main going is to have a bigger engine to tow along with going on the beach

 

Best bet would get a donor vehicle and swap all the stuff you need. The front frame mounts for the control arms will need to be welded on along with some other things. Or put your body on a 4X4 frame.

 

Putting that body on a 4x4 frame would be easier.......

5.9 is the largest engine in the 1500's. Pair that with an NV4500, NP241 and you will like it.

There are a couple threads around here for auto-manual conversions. As the trucks came from the factory with manuals, all the parts for the conversion are pretty available.