[ehbontrager]

I was just wondering, what is the best bang for the buck as far as getting a little better performance out of our little 4.3. The van is a '99 with about 155K on it and we have had little problems. We bought it w/ 95K on it and the worst that has happened is that it left us stranded when the fuel pump went out, but other than that it has been a trooper. Can these 4.3's be effectively hopped up easily or is it just best to wait until it blows up and build a good 350 for it, if the rest of the van is still any good by then. :Thanks for any help.

Eric

 

[Matrixx]

Hi ehbontrager

As for getting better performance out of the 4.3s, I just run a synthetic blend (Castrol) in my engine and transmission and full synthetic (Royal Purple 75/90) in the rear end with 92 octane. I do have the NGK (TR-5)-Iridiums for spark plugs and the MSD 8.5 Mil Super Conductor wires with the MSD Coil. This set-up gave me 212 HP at WOT with my first engine. I get 234 HP at WOT with this one I have in it now. I also treat the engine, transmission and fuel system with Dura-Lube and have for about 11 years now (great stuff). I'm happy with that, it's plenty of get up and go for me.

I'm sure others will chime in to help answer your question if the can.

 

[Gary]

You could also consider a gear change that would put the engine closer to the power band.You didn't say if it is a AWD or RWD.If it is a AWD you have to have the same gear ratio for the front and back.A 3.73 gear ratio is a good over all gear and 4.10's are good towing gears.

 

[ehbontrager]

Sorry, our van is just a rear wheel drive. How long can I expect the 4.3 to last. That way maybe I can plan for when it gives way. I have never owned a vehicle with this engine, but I am not unhappy with it. How much horsepower do they make stock? just curious. You know, more power is never a bad thing.

Thanks
Eric

 

[ihatemybike]

Something cheap to do would be to remove the restrictor plate on the throttle blade. Lets the van breath a little better, I could feel it off the line when I did it to my 2000.

The 4.3 can last forever when taken care of, sometimes even when not taken care of that well too. Grumpy had 297K miles when I bought it. Come to find out it was running on the original plugs, wires, cap, and rotor. :shock: