I have a 2000 camaro that just has the 3.8 with an automatic in it and I would like to put the 5.3 vortec out of a tahoe into it.

So first of all will the 5.3 bolt up to the transmission and can it handle 285hp?

Second if that wont work will an automatic out of a 95 z28 work i know that can handle the power but will it bolt up to the 5.3?
If someone could help me out I would really appriciate it

 

Although I admit I don't know all that much about engine swaps, I think I can tell you that the Votec is too big, there's a reason they only put it in trucks, it is physically too large for cars.

 

if you do a swap, do ls1.

but speaking of personal experience. buy a z, and sell the v6. im not kidding

cory

 

The 8.1L, most certainly.

The LS1-based Vortecs are nothing more than iron blocked versions of the LS1, to put it most simply.

Heavier, yes; too large, no way.

As for the OP's other question, you need a tranny from an LS1 F-body for best fit. The 3.8L version has a 60 degree bolt pattern and won't fit. An LT1/early Vortec truck engine tranny won't match up, either.

If it's a budget swap, that's fine. Why spend the money for the LS1 when you don't have to? I'd have tried a 6.0L in that situation, but whatever floats the boat...

 

The above post covered everything nicely. The swap is possible, but you will need more of that Tahoes powertrain the just the motor as your current tranny will not work with it. The time, difficult, and cost factors may outweigh it though.

 

Wow, that's a surprise, it looks so big in my dad's avalanche. Sorry smokinz, disreguard my post.