1998 gmc engine swap

[ballou11]

need help making decision I have a 1998 GMC 2500 4X4 automatic 5.7 has a rod hanging out of oil pan. I have a donor 1998 3500 2X4 standard 7.4 that runs and sounds great. now this is a budget build my 4x4 cost $600 it ran long enough to know transmission and 4x4 worked. the donor if used will cost $500 for whole truck I've looked around a bit and been told it will work but I will need the computer wiring harness and exhaust y-pipe. Will the swap work and am I on the right course or do I look for a used 5.7 in my budget

[SwampDonkey252]

I would look for a used 5.7 I just replaced the motor in my 97 GMC sierra bought a complete engine and full exhaust for $450. Gave it a $100 tune up and it was good to go!

[Duelin]

Also there is a couple of model years on those big blocks that you can't get the crank sensors any longer. No one makes any. you would have to check out which ones.

[00Silverado4x4]

Do you have a budget? I'd be cautious of stepping up to a 7.4 as you are talking seriously low gas mileage in comparison to a 5.7.