1999 Chevy S10 ZR2 Camper build.

[Colorado_Outback]

Tube work is looking good!

 

[norcal*PWRstroke]

Nice work that looks great! the framework is coming along nicely

 

[javajoe79]

Thanks. I have been contemplating my engine swap, tire size and gearing lately. Sort or leaning towards a cummins 6bt with NV4500 because I can get that setup with transfer case for a decent price. Otherwise I want a 4BT or Isuzu 4BD2T but I would end up spending more in the long run to attach those to the same drivetrain. The 6BT is overkill but to have the power I want, I would have to modify the 4BT or 4BD2T. Doing some calculations with those engines hooked to an NV4500, in 5th gear, 3.73 final drive and 35" tires, 2000rpm is 76mph. From my reading I should be able to achieve over 20mpg with either of those engines. The only problem withe the 6BT is it's size though.

 

[mtm_motors]

Like the idea to do a diesel swap. The 6BT weighs over 1,000 lbs, so it would definitely be a whopper going into an S10

Love how the camper is coming along. Not sure if you have mentioned it before, but what do you plan to do for insulation?

 

[javajoe79]

Yeah the 6BT is really long too. I will probably go with the Isuzu as I originally planned. But the engine swap is a ways off.

It will be insulated in between the tubing with rigid foam board. Not the best insulation but sufficient I think.

 

[javajoe79]

Here are the preliminary sketches of the interior layout. My girlfriend is trained as an architect and will be helping to plan out the interior build and layout. None of this is set in stone and I am open to suggestions or questions.

 

[chilliwak]

Wow:Wow1:now thats what I call some serious design work!:drool:

 

[Buddha.]

Seems like there would be a lot of down time with a diesel swap. A 5.7 or 383 even would get you plenty of power and the conversion parts are practically bolt on.

 

[norcal*PWRstroke]

Cant go wrong with a 4 or 6 bt. Either one is 100% worth the downtime Imho. You will have one unique reliable rig with a cummins diesel under the hood.

 

[Deleted member 9101]

Seems like there would be a lot of down time with a diesel swap. A 5.7 or 383 even would get you plenty of power and the conversion parts are practically bolt on.

I'd go with the newer LS series V-8's. Far superior in every way to the SBC while still being extremely affordable and a "bolt it" swap.

 

[javajoe79]

If I have the engine and trans ready, downtime won't be much but downtime also doesn't matter to me. Still planning on the Isuzu 4BD2T, NV4500 and 9" fords.

Have made some more progress lately. Mainly just welding but I received the window blanks that I had made. They are 1/2' thick, double pane and tempered. There are 4 total and they will be built into the upper wall structure. They should work nicely.

 

[javajoe79]

I'd go with the newer LS series V-8's. Far superior in every way to the SBC while still being extremely affordable and a "bolt it" swap.

I considered this but ultimately want the simplicity of a mechanical injection diesel and one fuel source for everything. I do have an LS6 for sale if you are interested.

 

[chilliwak]

Java the more I see your camper come together the more it makes me want to see it finshed. I guess you have it the same way..:drool:

 

[javajoe79]

Yeah man I am seriously jonesing for the day this hit's the road. I am hoping to make it to the Asheville Overland Expo this year in at least some form of functional.

 

[Deleted member 9101]

I do have an LS6 for sale if you are interested.

I would...buuuuut... it would be nothing short of sacrilege to shove it under the hood of my Tundra...haha.