Engine swap

[Jose Avila]

I’m sure this has been asked over a dozen times but I keep finding confusing answers so to get a more accurate answer I’ll start with the details. I have an 85 Suburban with a 350/TH350/NP205, 5:13 at the axles on 44”tires. It’s strictly a mud toy. I haven’t had any issues but still want to get more out of it so I’m debating going with a rebuilt, cammed 454 or an 8.1. One of my questions is, if I go with a 454 do I need to change the mounts? I found a machine shop that will give the 454 I have sitting around a new life for $2,000. Should I go that route and call it good or would An 8.1 make a significant difference that would justify spending the extra couple thousand? Thanks in advance.