I have a 2500hd with the 8.1. It’s a ripper up till about 55 mph, even when pulling a trailer. Also should be paired with the Allison which is bulletproof! 278,000 on it and it’s still a beast
Like the vanilla Doctor Pepper! What's up with that shenanigan? The grossest Dr. Pepper of them all? What kind of Mtn Dew drinker drinks that? Mtn Dew supply line disruption? :-)
@@knlazar08 I like them. Not a fan of Mt. Dew though. I can taste the orange juice in it. I had a bad experience with over eating oranges as a kid. 🤮 Kinda stuck with me. 😂
Guys, HERE is Our Savior HalleluYAH translates “Praise ye YaH” YaH is The Heavenly Father YaH is Who Created “Man (Adam)” YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING YaH was Who they Crucified for the sins OF “Man” ** NO female involved WHATSOEVER ** - Hebrew Book of Isaiah Isaiah 42:8 "I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. Isaiah 43:11 I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me. Isaiah 45:5 I am YaH, and there is none else.
I had a fleet of those 8.1l Chevy big blocks and I had really no major issues. The drivers beat the crap out of them and they were not treated nice. Though we serviced them regularly every 4000 miles and they were solid.....👍😉
HERE is The Savior HalleluYAH translates “Praise ye YaH” YaH is The Heavenly Father YaH is Who Created “Man (Adam)” YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING YaH was Who they Crucified for the sins OF “Man” ** NO female involved WHATSOEVER ** - Hebrew Book of Isaiah Isaiah 42:8 "I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. Isaiah 43:11 I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me. Isaiah 45:5 I am YaH, and there is none else.
A couple of things you should consider on the 8.1 that will make it breath better and not diminish the low end torque. First and foremost is to remove the intake manifold and delete the internal PCV which is the reason the 8.1 uses oil. If you want more top end, cut the bottom of the intake manifold off and clean out the internal restrictions. This will push that long flat torque curve well past 5000 rpm. In stock form they are done at 4400 on a good day. Long tube headers and a tune will get you deep into the 500s for torque at the crank. You won't be disappointed with any of these modifications and this thing should be good for 300k miles +.
I agree, I really like a lot of LT’s way of building his own truck projects. The Ygly Truck’s 8.1L turbo engine is a real torque monster. It would be great to see a similar one in Heavy Wrecker.
I had an 8.1 with the high flow intake manifold. It is well worth the investment, as the stock manifold does not flow very well. Just something to consider. There is a guy out in California that makes all kinds of bolt on stuff that makes the 8.1 a monster.
Yep Raylar as LeRoy said. The guy has a TH-cam channel. I can say in my experience it was a huge improvement over stock. Even the gas mileage got better.
Thanks for all the fun Matt! Suggestion! Add a simple gusset to the top and bottom obtuse angles of that welded Gooseneck. It will add a lot of strength to the Gooseneck and take a lot of stress off of the welds.
HERE is The Savior HalleluYAH translates “Praise ye YaH” YaH is The Heavenly Father YaH is Who Created “Man (Adam)” YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING YaH was Who they Crucified for the sins OF “Man” ** NO female involved WHATSOEVER ** - Hebrew Book of Isaiah Isaiah 42:8 "I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. Isaiah 43:11 I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me. Isaiah 45:5 I am YaH, and there is none else.
Hello Matt, I wanted to make a suggestion for the Wrecker. Have you thought about the fuel tank? Since you usually run out of Fuel in the past (Due to unforeseen "reasons", LOL) Would a thought of a custom made fuel tank of say 60 gallons be a good idea? Now would be a time to think about how to have it shaped to fit into the channel between the frame. It might need a middle raised hump to clear the drive shaft. A good electric fuel in the back end. Add a super heavy duty skid plate because of going over rocks might be a great Idea. I know you have said that you are trying to limit weight but if done now it would be a bonus later. You have several people to draw on to get it prepared for later install. One reason I was thinking about a 60 gallon tank is because you mentioned that the 8.1 liter engine takes 3 times s much fuel to do the same work. If you think about it now it could be manufactured before you are ready to install it. Hope it helps to make the suggestion.
Should be split between two tanks. Given the nature of the beast he's building - redundancy is crucial. One large tank could spring a leak & all of it lost. Two tanks are less likely to both leak fuel.
My 26gal Crew cab 06 short bed that is lifted 6” running 35s gets 8.7 mpg city with me babying it unloaded WITH a tailwind. Any type of more fuel storage is a MUST…. I’m not even through the video and I can tell you all are the real deal! Good luck y’all!!!!
I have an 06 GMC 2500 with the 6.0 L extended cab with a 2 inch factory lift kit because it is the disguised 7/8th ton. I get 13 highway 10.6 city with slow acceleration. Hook on the 6x12 cargo trailer and loose 2 to 3 mpg especially with a 20 plus mph head wind. I know Matt is always showing off his fuel refilling prowess (snack/lunch/Mountain Dew refill time) but in the middle of the even when "We got a Call" time rolls around sometimes he just heads out. He is needed and he goes. He also probably won't be putting in a gasoline station GPS warning system. (Actually I want one of those!) So a larger tank will be needed. (I also want one of those!)
@@SeanWyseman the old 90's ford f 350's had an option for two fuel tanks, my old boss had one. just a switch inside to flip between front and rear tanks, Then Matt can run out of fuel twice :)
I was thinking the same thing. You can always under fill a large tank for small jobs. But having that extra headroom for long hauls would be very useful.
@@randytravis3998 in an accident, it's amazing how forces multiply. Never assume it will be fine. For the extra effort it would take. It's worth doing right.
@@captaininsano2777 -- I don't think that they considered how the forces are going to react if there is a sidewards load on the trailer tongue... I would consider putting some braces that went from the top of the tongue to the forward corners of the bed of the trailer...
I did some math and without at least a 4:1(thinking doubled 205's) transfer case this thing is going to have a lot of wheelspeed even in first gear. Would probably work fine in the sand, but will make rocks and technical stuff a lot more tricky. It does look like you will want an overdrive unless you want that 8.1 humming along on the highway at over 3k 🤣 Just for fun I did the math for a SM465 and a 4:1 transfer case and got just over 1mph per 1k engine rpm. Unfortunately that's a stick with 6.5:1 first and no overdrive. I would love to see you go with a TR4050, it's got good gearing and can handle 600lb of torque in stock form. I'm not too knowledgeable on automatics but you'll need something super beefy or a lot of gear reduction to reduce how much stress it has to take. My guess is you'll get creative with the transfer case and stick with the stock 8.1 transmission Whatever route you take it will be an interesting truck and I can't wait to see it in action Edit: just looked up the first gear ratios on the Allison 1000 (3.10) and the 4L85e (2.85) and hope your transmission is the Allison because it's beefier and at least cracks 3:1 gearing 🤣 you auto guys really don't get anything with deep reduction
LT!!!! He IS the LS guru!!! I'm glad you guys linked up. I follow LT for a little while now and he's nothing short of amazing when it comes to a LS motor. Thumbs up!!!
I remember a few years ago I had just returned from a trip to Moab, and this channel was recommended to me. It had a little over 30k followers at the time. Now it's 1.11 million. Wow!
Really glad to see LT on the channel. Hopefully your channel, Fab Rats, Robbie, and all the people you collaborate with can boost his channel and more importantly give him other people to make content with.
@@captaininsano2777 he explained in another video why he didn’t go diesel and I kinda forget why… but I think it was the instant torque versus a more controlled torque for the sand. But then he talks about possibly adding a turbo to the 8.1. So maybe there is some trial and error going on. 😂
Great choice on the 8.1. When you were talking about some 454 LS version, I was going "You know Chevy made engines that size, from the factory, right?"
I like watching your trip from the different points of view based on the different channels, you do have fun. Glad you found the motor, this is going to be cool. Awesome work!
I pulled an RV fulltime for 8 years with an '02 Chevy with the 8.1L/Alison combination. I loved it. It seemed like every diesel owner I talked with doing the same thing had high-dollar repair stories, all I ever did to that truck was a radiator and an intake manifold. Others have mentioned the fuel mileage, but also watch the oil consumption. 1 quart of oil per 100 gallons of fuel oil usage was evidently considered acceptable by GM.
Yes! So glad to see L.T. getting involved with the power train. He's building some cool stuff! The 8.1 will be an awesome build! Marine dock test results speak for themselves on that one!
It's really great to see all of the people that Matt is friends with and the connections between them. To come up with all of the parts to put things together!! I'm surprised by they are spread from top to bottom of Utah!!
Matt, good to see LT Tolman on your show, I follow LT, he knows his stuff about chevys. I hope you and LT collaborate more in the future. Maybe get LT into off road wheel'in.
Shout out to the whole crew involved in making these videos and getting them out for us to view. Y’all are beasts. The ones in front of the camera. And behind the scenes. Ps: Matt, you’ve made a lot of really great friends and connections. The things your friends do for you, and what you do for them is evidence of some real solid relationships.
I loved monsters. I quit cold turkey years ago. No looking back. Lately quit cola. No more. Now Im working out everyday and doing what I can to get back in shape. Peace.
@@nottoday7495 I think figuring out engine management (edit: and integrating that into the rest of the wiring and gauges) on either of those would be a nightmare. The 8100 being GMT800 based you have lots of options there. Also, even though these are all reliable engines, we're talking about a rough service application and in reality - it could blow up. I'd much rather source a replacement 8.1 then try to find one of those new engines. I haven't driven the new 7.3 but I'm not very impressed by the 6.6. By the "butt dyno" it doesn't feel any different than the 6.0 trucks. In an 8.1 you just have a mountain of low end torque, it's a sharp comparison.
@@masterflow101 I was hoping for the 8100/Allison package, not sure of any other real HD transmission that has readily available 8.1 adaption. Pretty sure the motorhomes used them as well as the HD trucks. I know the Burban doesn't have one but maybe that's still the plan. Would make sense to pair it with a beefed up Allison.
Keep the same transmission as is with the motor now, swap out for a greater low range ratio transfer case and possibly add a bigger transmission cooler. The greatest power draw on the big wrecker will NOT be off road, but flat towing a big RV on the highway on an uphil grade at 65 mph.
I was mad as all hell when you said "ls powerplant"... now Im much happier. When my 454 in my truck finally let go at almost 300k miles, the 8.1 was my replacement. Honestly, best choice Ive ever made. It's a great engine, reliable as the sun is bright, makes a great noise and you learn to live with the 6 mpg... Ok you never learn to tolerate the mpg issues. Fun fact unrelated, I had a Porsche Cayanne turbo that also got 6mpg..
Good choice for an engine. A very small cam and set of valve springs and you could pick up a ton of power- even down low-maybe you can get LT to do it for you.
Matt, love the channel and all the builds. Something to consider is the cooling system you are going to need for those hot summer recoveries. Had a friend who put an old Mack cab on a 3/4 ton suburban chassis with 7.4. He ended up having to put an auxiliary radiator on the headache rack on the flatbed even with a custom BeCool aluminum radiator. Those old trucks don’t have a lot of room to get a big radiator in there and that big block needs a big radiator.
That's awesome! Definitely go with the Turbocharger. It will dramatically improve the power and torque, and since the wrecker is going to be heavy, it will need the additional power. Do it! Can't wait to see this all of this build!!!
One thing about it- you won't be able to go off cruising around for rescue without MAKING SURE you have FUEL in that!!!!! :) I had one- it pulls into a station sucks it in and BURPS!!!
@@Rafu01 - Exactly. A wrecker that size and a diesel wasn't even a thought? That's just inexcusable. I love Matt and his whole universe, but he's so wrong not running a diesel in the heavy wrecker.
@@TurkeySandwichJr I understand that this thing was never going to get great fuel economy, but given its size I don’t think he can haul it between recovery sites. It’s gonna have to drive out there on its own and given how large of area he covers it just seems like the 8.1 is going to drink way too much fuel.
Idea for that trailer... build some form of receiver that could fit an extension and hitch that sits LOWER, so during those rare moments where Papa E needs a hand getting his trailer somewhere, you bust out that "accessory" and pin it in under the goose-neck and have the ability tow it with another vehicle. Built right the extension and 2nd hitch could fit in the frame of the trailer for storage too?
Awesome video props to the editor for keeping up with Matt, the 8.1 is definitely a torque monster excellent choice for the Heavy Wreaker, ya'll have great community being involved in one another's projects especially when ya take some friendly advice a dana 44 for the Banana great video God bless ❤😉👍
I’d love to have a conversation with Matt to understand where he’s coming from with his concepts of gas engines. For comparison, a Cummins 3.9l engine with a few bolt on upgrades but no engine work will reliably push ballpark 500 horse, 900+ ftlb of torque, weighs 100ish pounds less than the 8.1, won’t vapor lock because it’s a diesel, atleast double the fuel economy easily, and will last 4 times as long due to it’s low rpm (hence “million mile diesels”). Those engines are also very happy and well suited for idle work (running hydraulic pumps and generators off pto) which is one of their alternate uses. That being said he seems to have done his research which is why I’d love to hear how he’s come to where he is on his ideas. In the car community I find that there’s often something that the person who doesn’t agree with the decision is overlooking in the process of coming to said decision.
I agree with you.There is no reason to put petrol engine in to heavy duty trucks especially when you running those military axes.Only maybe if you live in northern Canada.He is going to go to Cummins and Allison.
Matt I love the idea you have going here, not trying to sound overboard here but I think a very useful power adder on this would obviously be a tune, but also two SMALL turbos to get this thing pushing power out of the low end quicker for you which I think would be the best time for you to have power. Give it more grunt basically. Very excited to see where it goes. Good luck buddy
i disagree. the 8.1 makes 460 torque STOCK. and the torque curve is so flat, it makes almost 400 torque from IDLE, its really unecessary. the allison trans is the icing on the cake, and he will have the diffs geared for his application.
Twin turbos just adds complexity for no advantage. Remember, when you fit small twins, each is only getting half the exhaust flow to drive the turbine. A *modern* large single is more efficient and doesn't lose any response either.
Unfortunately small turbos are great at making power quick on the low end but will become inefficient in the top end as the engine will demand more CFM than the turbos can flow. It'll actually rob you of power up top. That's if the turbos don't overheat first.
Hi guys, nice to see everyone getting what they desire. That Suburban with the 8.1 engine looks in excellent condition, almost a shame to rob its engine and transmission, only almost though. This new wrecker is going to be outstanding.
Same! Here in Rhode Island that thing would go for a pretty penny, NONE of them here look that clean. Hopefully they at least keep it around and maybe throw that six liter in it.
Thanks for taking my recommendation of the 8.1. There a power house and make big torque. Don’t be afraid to put a low psi turbo on it. You will never break it.
Not trying to burst your bubble here but you're like the 50th person I seen say thanks for taking my recommendation he didn't take your recommendation he took his own recommendation
Hey Matt & ALL that were in this video & Tucker for editing !! ""CONGRATS"" on this 1 !!! Glad you were able to find the motor you wanted as looked like a well maintained ""Sub."" you got it from !!! Robby will be looking to see what Rory pulls out of the wilds in MOAB for sure !! Have a great week & Thanks again !! 😄🙂🙃😉🤔🤔🤠😎👍👍👍👍👍👍
Hey if throttle response is so important for you, why not consider a supercharger (aka crank driven turbocharger). Potential is less but instalation is easier and power delivery more linear than a turbo
Glad you went with the 8.1. Ls are easy and cheap and quick repairs, but that's the thing it's made that way cause it will need repairs when it's used hard. The 8.1 will last and take it, well worth it in the long run in your line of work.
My advice... go for the turbo. With stock compression and a stock cam, throttle response and low RPM drivability will be exactly the same as stock, but when you want the extra oomph, ya just gotta keep your foot in it a little bit longer.
definitely should have a diesel for a truck that big and heavy, that truck will be twice as heavy as any application that that engine was intended for, good luck keeping engine temps under control. Awesome truck build, cant wait to see it finished.
I am stoked Matt! You are finally moving ahead in a serious way with the BIG offroad wrecker! I have been so anxious to see how it turns out! I thought you would perhaps go with a diesel, but with the high cost of diesel now, and predicted to go up and stay up, the gas engine makes sense! I am anxious to see this truck at work and the build done to where you can take it out on the trail, so please don't put it on the shelf and make us all wait! Tell Lizzy we are proud of her welding skills, and the rest of the crew is just top notch!
The 8.1 is a great choice, I recommend you make sure you have a working fuel gauge in it Matt, and a large fuel tank, or two.
Or don't... Guaranteed content! lol
3 large tanks at least. Knowing Matt he'll need a screamer to remind him to fill up.
I have a 2500hd with the 8.1. It’s a ripper up till about 55 mph, even when pulling a trailer. Also should be paired with the Allison which is bulletproof! 278,000 on it and it’s still a beast
*cough FIFTY GALLONS cough* 😁
Take the tank out of the burb, I believe it’s a 38 gal tank
Jaymie needs an award for putting up with all of Matt's totally insane, but amazing shenanigans and field trips.
Like the vanilla Doctor Pepper! What's up with that shenanigan? The grossest Dr. Pepper of them all? What kind of Mtn Dew drinker drinks that? Mtn Dew supply line disruption? :-)
@@knlazar08 I like them. Not a fan of Mt. Dew though. I can taste the orange juice in it. I had a bad experience with over eating oranges as a kid. 🤮 Kinda stuck with me. 😂
@@knlazar08 right. For me it's pepsi,sun drop,mt dew dr pepper. Any added flavors are nasty
Guys, HERE is Our Savior
HalleluYAH translates “Praise ye YaH”
YaH is The Heavenly Father
YaH is Who Created “Man (Adam)”
YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING
YaH was Who they Crucified for the sins OF “Man”
** NO female involved WHATSOEVER **
- Hebrew Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 42:8
"I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.
Isaiah 43:11
I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me.
Isaiah 45:5
I am YaH, and there is none else.
I had a fleet of those 8.1l Chevy big blocks and I had really no major issues. The drivers beat the crap out of them and they were not treated nice. Though we serviced them regularly every 4000 miles and they were solid.....👍😉
HERE is The Savior
HalleluYAH translates “Praise ye YaH”
YaH is The Heavenly Father
YaH is Who Created “Man (Adam)”
YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING
YaH was Who they Crucified for the sins OF “Man”
** NO female involved WHATSOEVER **
- Hebrew Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 42:8
"I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.
Isaiah 43:11
I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me.
Isaiah 45:5
I am YaH, and there is none else.
A couple of things you should consider on the 8.1 that will make it breath better and not diminish the low end torque. First and foremost is to remove the intake manifold and delete the internal PCV which is the reason the 8.1 uses oil. If you want more top end, cut the bottom of the intake manifold off and clean out the internal restrictions. This will push that long flat torque curve well past 5000 rpm. In stock form they are done at 4400 on a good day. Long tube headers and a tune will get you deep into the 500s for torque at the crank. You won't be disappointed with any of these modifications and this thing should be good for 300k miles +.
FINALLY LT is getting the exposure he deserves with his amazing builds and attention to detail!
I agree, I really like a lot of LT’s way of building his own truck projects. The Ygly Truck’s 8.1L turbo engine is a real torque monster. It would be great to see a similar one in Heavy Wrecker.
Nice to see LT. good collaboration with him on the heavy wrecker. Definitely a guru.
Now that would be a sweet collab. After he gets the motor in gotta definitely boost it!
Boost it.
I love Powernation but I hate how so many guys like him get gone so often.
I had an 8.1 with the high flow intake manifold. It is well worth the investment, as the stock manifold does not flow very well. Just something to consider. There is a guy out in California that makes all kinds of bolt on stuff that makes the 8.1 a monster.
I had to private message tucker to recommend the 8.1, its the perfect motor for the build!
Does it change the powerband location at all? Or is it just more torque everywhere
Do tell. I need names. I’m on the east coast but would love some other options for my 8.1 suburban.
Raylar Engineering! The Cool Gap
Yep Raylar as LeRoy said. The guy has a TH-cam channel. I can say in my experience it was a huge improvement over stock. Even the gas mileage got better.
I have a 2001 8.1 with 300.000 on it and I still trust driving a trailer from Idaho to las Vegas with a trailer. Great engine.
So glad you stopped at LTs house to look at his 8.1 in the Ugly Truck. He’s an amazing tech.
Watching this build come together between the different channels is awesome. Keep it up fellas. Seeing friends accomplish a great task is inspiring.
Thanks for all the fun Matt!
Suggestion! Add a simple gusset to the top and bottom obtuse angles of that welded Gooseneck. It will add a lot of strength to the Gooseneck and take a lot of stress off of the welds.
Thought the same thing about adding gussets to those welds.
So glad someone mentioned this. Heavy braking or backing up will twist / damage that gooseneck hitch extension.
Add a tube from the top of the front wheel hoop to the top miter on the square tube hitch
This is awesome!!!! I thought for sure that Matt settled on a 6.0L.Seeing him working with a legend like L.T. is even more awesome-er....😁😁👍👍💪👊🙌🙌🙌🙌
I'm super excited to see this wrecker in action, it's gonna be epic! And big props to Tucker, he is a master editor!
Keep up the great work!👍
HERE is The Savior
HalleluYAH translates “Praise ye YaH”
YaH is The Heavenly Father
YaH is Who Created “Man (Adam)”
YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING
YaH was Who they Crucified for the sins OF “Man”
** NO female involved WHATSOEVER **
- Hebrew Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 42:8
"I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.
Isaiah 43:11
I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me.
Isaiah 45:5
I am YaH, and there is none else.
Hello Matt,
I wanted to make a suggestion for the Wrecker. Have you thought about the fuel tank? Since you usually run out of Fuel in the past (Due to unforeseen "reasons", LOL) Would a thought of a custom made fuel tank of say 60 gallons be a good idea? Now would be a time to think about how to have it shaped to fit into the channel between the frame. It might need a middle raised hump to clear the drive shaft. A good electric fuel in the back end. Add a super heavy duty skid plate because of going over rocks might be a great Idea. I know you have said that you are trying to limit weight but if done now it would be a bonus later. You have several people to draw on to get it prepared for later install. One reason I was thinking about a 60 gallon tank is because you mentioned that the 8.1 liter engine takes 3 times s much fuel to do the same work. If you think about it now it could be manufactured before you are ready to install it. Hope it helps to make the suggestion.
Should be split between two tanks. Given the nature of the beast he's building - redundancy is crucial. One large tank could spring a leak & all of it lost. Two tanks are less likely to both leak fuel.
My 26gal Crew cab 06 short bed that is lifted 6” running 35s gets 8.7 mpg city with me babying it unloaded WITH a tailwind. Any type of more fuel storage is a MUST…. I’m not even through the video and I can tell you all are the real deal! Good luck y’all!!!!
I recommend Dual Large tanks for Matt
I have an 06 GMC 2500 with the 6.0 L extended cab with a 2 inch factory lift kit because it is the disguised 7/8th ton. I get 13 highway 10.6 city with slow acceleration. Hook on the 6x12 cargo trailer and loose 2 to 3 mpg especially with a 20 plus mph head wind.
I know Matt is always showing off his fuel refilling prowess (snack/lunch/Mountain Dew refill time) but in the middle of the even when "We got a Call" time rolls around sometimes he just heads out. He is needed and he goes. He also probably won't be putting in a gasoline station GPS warning system. (Actually I want one of those!) So a larger tank will be needed. (I also want one of those!)
@@SeanWyseman the old 90's ford f 350's had an option for two fuel tanks, my old boss had one. just a switch inside to flip between front and rear tanks, Then Matt can run out of fuel twice :)
So awesome that you went to see LT, I really think it'll be amazing to see what yall can build together.
The crew you guys have and bring in is absolutely awesome, great bunch of people.
Matt, with that engine you are going to need a HUGE fuel cell.
A 50 gallon tank would do it. Or' you'll run out of gas all the time.
But then he won't run out of fuel all the time.
and a working fuel gauge!
I was thinking the same thing. You can always under fill a large tank for small jobs. But having that extra headroom for long hauls would be very useful.
@@webfreakz don't need a fuel gauge with an 8.1...... just remember everytime ya start that beast up it's almost outa fuel!!
That's a heck of a long lever arm on that drop hitch, it could use a few gussets
He really only needs 1 underneith the welded joint.
@@captaininsano2777 One on the top as well where the tongue comes straight off the trailer.
they plated the side of the hitch where they cut and welded it for what there hauling on the trailer it will be fine
@@randytravis3998 in an accident, it's amazing how forces multiply. Never assume it will be fine. For the extra effort it would take. It's worth doing right.
@@captaininsano2777 -- I don't think that they considered how the forces are going to react if there is a sidewards load on the trailer tongue... I would consider putting some braces that went from the top of the tongue to the forward corners of the bed of the trailer...
I did some math and without at least a 4:1(thinking doubled 205's) transfer case this thing is going to have a lot of wheelspeed even in first gear. Would probably work fine in the sand, but will make rocks and technical stuff a lot more tricky.
It does look like you will want an overdrive unless you want that 8.1 humming along on the highway at over 3k 🤣
Just for fun I did the math for a SM465 and a 4:1 transfer case and got just over 1mph per 1k engine rpm. Unfortunately that's a stick with 6.5:1 first and no overdrive.
I would love to see you go with a TR4050, it's got good gearing and can handle 600lb of torque in stock form.
I'm not too knowledgeable on automatics but you'll need something super beefy or a lot of gear reduction to reduce how much stress it has to take.
My guess is you'll get creative with the transfer case and stick with the stock 8.1 transmission
Whatever route you take it will be an interesting truck and I can't wait to see it in action
Edit: just looked up the first gear ratios on the Allison 1000 (3.10) and the 4L85e (2.85) and hope your transmission is the Allison because it's beefier and at least cracks 3:1 gearing 🤣 you auto guys really don't get anything with deep reduction
you really dont have any idea of what you are talking about.
LT!!!! He IS the LS guru!!! I'm glad you guys linked up. I follow LT for a little while now and he's nothing short of amazing when it comes to a LS motor. Thumbs up!!!
I remember a few years ago I had just returned from a trip to Moab, and this channel was recommended to me. It had a little over 30k followers at the time. Now it's 1.11 million. Wow!
That wrecker is going to be cool. I love the morvair. Things that are different are the coolest ones!
I’m a big fan of LT’s channel, so cool too see you guys working together. Two of my favorite channels.👍
Really glad to see LT on the channel. Hopefully your channel, Fab Rats, Robbie, and all the people you collaborate with can boost his channel and more importantly give him other people to make content with.
Raylar engineering has a good catalog of performance parts supporting the 8.1 vortec platform, excited for this build.
Thank you Matt and crew for the amazing content
“It uses 3x the fuel as a Duramax.” So what you’re saying is, you are going to run out of fuel in this vehicle too? We are shocked. lol
Maybe he should go with a Duramax. But then again the way fuel is now. Diesel is a mortgage payment every time ya fill up.
@@captaininsano2777 he explained in another video why he didn’t go diesel and I kinda forget why… but I think it was the instant torque versus a more controlled torque for the sand. But then he talks about possibly adding a turbo to the 8.1. So maybe there is some trial and error going on. 😂
@@100mphClub lol just like having enough fuel for the job. Trial n error!!! 🤣😂
My first thought🤣
@@100mphClub He's probably trying to save weight with the gas motor. I'd vote for a Cummins personally.
Wow Matt, picking a Big Block over the LS is awesome! This build just really got interesting.
Was not at all expecting the crossover with Lawrence Tolman. He's definitely got good content! Been watching his videos for a while.
Great choice on the 8.1. When you were talking about some 454 LS version, I was going "You know Chevy made engines that size, from the factory, right?"
I like watching your trip from the different points of view based on the different channels, you do have fun. Glad you found the motor, this is going to be cool. Awesome work!
Love what you guys do, keep up the awesome content....
do a supercharger it will give you even more low end torque and you will really notice it on the high altitude jobs. also it would sound great
I pulled an RV fulltime for 8 years with an '02 Chevy with the 8.1L/Alison combination. I loved it. It seemed like every diesel owner I talked with doing the same thing had high-dollar repair stories, all I ever did to that truck was a radiator and an intake manifold. Others have mentioned the fuel mileage, but also watch the oil consumption. 1 quart of oil per 100 gallons of fuel oil usage was evidently considered acceptable by GM.
Yes! So glad to see L.T. getting involved with the power train. He's building some cool stuff! The 8.1 will be an awesome build! Marine dock test results speak for themselves on that one!
Such a great group of like minded, skilled people doing interesting projects and helping their community. Thanks for all the great content.
It's really great to see all of the people that Matt is friends with and the connections between them. To come up with all of the parts to put things together!! I'm surprised by they are spread from top to bottom of Utah!!
Matt, good to see LT Tolman on your show, I follow LT, he knows his stuff about chevys. I hope you and LT collaborate more in the future. Maybe get LT into off road wheel'in.
Shout out to the whole crew involved in making these videos and getting them out for us to view.
Y’all are beasts.
The ones in front of the camera. And behind the scenes.
Ps: Matt, you’ve made a lot of really great friends and connections.
The things your friends do for you, and what you do for them is evidence of some real solid relationships.
A small turbo with low boost might be perfect for that thing. Love your channel thanks
THIS!
I had a 3/4 ton Suburban with the 8.1. Loved it.
I loved monsters. I quit cold turkey years ago. No looking back. Lately quit cola. No more. Now Im working out everyday and doing what I can to get back in shape. Peace.
This is one of the best videos ive watched, the editor is doing a amazing job with the videos
There are 3 editors for MORR: Tucker, Michael, and Caleb
Yes! I was hoping you'd go for the 8100 drivetrain, it's really a good engine for this project.
I was saying spend a little extra and get the new 6.6 gas or the ford 7.3
@@nottoday7495 I think figuring out engine management (edit: and integrating that into the rest of the wiring and gauges) on either of those would be a nightmare. The 8100 being GMT800 based you have lots of options there. Also, even though these are all reliable engines, we're talking about a rough service application and in reality - it could blow up. I'd much rather source a replacement 8.1 then try to find one of those new engines.
I haven't driven the new 7.3 but I'm not very impressed by the 6.6. By the "butt dyno" it doesn't feel any different than the 6.0 trucks. In an 8.1 you just have a mountain of low end torque, it's a sharp comparison.
Drive train or power train you mean.
@@masterflow101 I was hoping for the 8100/Allison package, not sure of any other real HD transmission that has readily available 8.1 adaption. Pretty sure the motorhomes used them as well as the HD trucks. I know the Burban doesn't have one but maybe that's still the plan. Would make sense to pair it with a beefed up Allison.
Keep the same transmission as is with the motor now, swap out for a greater low range ratio transfer case and possibly add a bigger transmission cooler. The greatest power draw on the big wrecker will NOT be off road, but flat towing a big RV on the highway on an uphil grade at 65 mph.
I was mad as all hell when you said "ls powerplant"... now Im much happier. When my 454 in my truck finally let go at almost 300k miles, the 8.1 was my replacement. Honestly, best choice Ive ever made. It's a great engine, reliable as the sun is bright, makes a great noise and you learn to live with the 6 mpg... Ok you never learn to tolerate the mpg issues. Fun fact unrelated, I had a Porsche Cayanne turbo that also got 6mpg..
I love Lawrence’s channel. Been following for a while. Wasn’t expecting him as a guest!
Good choice for an engine. A very small cam and set of valve springs and you could pick up a ton of power- even down low-maybe you can get LT to do it for you.
I think I just watched a matt's off-road recovery vlog? It was great! I really enjoy the broad scope of content you guys produce!
Matt, love the channel and all the builds. Something to consider is the cooling system you are going to need for those hot summer recoveries. Had a friend who put an old Mack cab on a 3/4 ton suburban chassis with 7.4. He ended up having to put an auxiliary radiator on the headache rack on the flatbed even with a custom BeCool aluminum radiator. Those old trucks don’t have a lot of room to get a big radiator in there and that big block needs a big radiator.
That's awesome! Definitely go with the Turbocharger. It will dramatically improve the power and torque, and since the wrecker is going to be heavy, it will need the additional power. Do it! Can't wait to see this all of this build!!!
I had an 8.1 and loved it . One of the issues with them is oil consumption. I switched to Rotella 15/40 and that solved that issue
We need derby building and racing videoseries with all you guys collab!
One thing about it- you won't be able to go off cruising around for rescue without MAKING SURE you have FUEL in that!!!!! :) I had one- it pulls into a station sucks it in and BURPS!!!
The fuel economy is atrocious, hope Matt can find a 50 gallon fuel tank or something!
@@MeEntertainmentJo_876 Or digs in to common sense and puts in a diesel.
@@Rafu01 - Exactly. A wrecker that size and a diesel wasn't even a thought? That's just inexcusable.
I love Matt and his whole universe, but he's so wrong not running a diesel in the heavy wrecker.
Even a Duramax in this heavy truck would get extremely poor fuel mileage. I think you all are missing that this is a purpose built rig.
@@TurkeySandwichJr I understand that this thing was never going to get great fuel economy, but given its size I don’t think he can haul it between recovery sites. It’s gonna have to drive out there on its own and given how large of area he covers it just seems like the 8.1 is going to drink way too much fuel.
Great choice of motors. That Wrecker is going to be a beast. Also glad to see you are going to solve your u-joint problem on the Banana.
Glad he listened to my suggestion on the motor
Idea for that trailer... build some form of receiver that could fit an extension and hitch that sits LOWER, so during those rare moments where Papa E needs a hand getting his trailer somewhere, you bust out that "accessory" and pin it in under the goose-neck and have the ability tow it with another vehicle. Built right the extension and 2nd hitch could fit in the frame of the trailer for storage too?
When I was a young Steamfitter apprentice, one of the journeymen I worked with would say "Just eyeball it, boy! (But use yer *good* eye)."
Awesome video props to the editor for keeping up with Matt, the 8.1 is definitely a torque monster excellent choice for the Heavy Wreaker, ya'll have great community being involved in one another's projects especially when ya take some friendly advice a dana 44 for the Banana great video God bless ❤😉👍
I’d love to have a conversation with Matt to understand where he’s coming from with his concepts of gas engines. For comparison, a Cummins 3.9l engine with a few bolt on upgrades but no engine work will reliably push ballpark 500 horse, 900+ ftlb of torque, weighs 100ish pounds less than the 8.1, won’t vapor lock because it’s a diesel, atleast double the fuel economy easily, and will last 4 times as long due to it’s low rpm (hence “million mile diesels”). Those engines are also very happy and well suited for idle work (running hydraulic pumps and generators off pto) which is one of their alternate uses. That being said he seems to have done his research which is why I’d love to hear how he’s come to where he is on his ideas. In the car community I find that there’s often something that the person who doesn’t agree with the decision is overlooking in the process of coming to said decision.
You answered your own question, the answer is rpm
I agree with you.There is no reason to put petrol engine in to heavy duty trucks especially when you running those military axes.Only maybe if you live in northern Canada.He is going to go to Cummins and Allison.
Wholly cow, that was a months worth of video. Really enjoyed this one.
How cool is that to have mountains to look at out of your workshop? Beautiful. And I could see the GuhNats. Nasty little buggers.
Matt I love the idea you have going here, not trying to sound overboard here but I think a very useful power adder on this would obviously be a tune, but also two SMALL turbos to get this thing pushing power out of the low end quicker for you which I think would be the best time for you to have power. Give it more grunt basically. Very excited to see where it goes. Good luck buddy
i disagree. the 8.1 makes 460 torque STOCK. and the torque curve is so flat, it makes almost 400 torque from IDLE, its really unecessary. the allison trans is the icing on the cake, and he will have the diffs geared for his application.
Twin turbos just adds complexity for no advantage. Remember, when you fit small twins, each is only getting half the exhaust flow to drive the turbine. A *modern* large single is more efficient and doesn't lose any response either.
Unfortunately small turbos are great at making power quick on the low end but will become inefficient in the top end as the engine will demand more CFM than the turbos can flow. It'll actually rob you of power up top. That's if the turbos don't overheat first.
Hi guys, nice to see everyone getting what they desire. That Suburban with the 8.1 engine looks in excellent condition, almost a shame to rob its engine and transmission, only almost though. This new wrecker is going to be outstanding.
I havetears flowing. That truck is so nice. Here's hoping I can find a nice one again here in michigan lol.
Same! Here in Rhode Island that thing would go for a pretty penny, NONE of them here look that clean. Hopefully they at least keep it around and maybe throw that six liter in it.
Looks like the blurred out plates were Iowa plates… if that’s true, there is no way it’s a solid truck
Thanks for taking my recommendation of the 8.1. There a power house and make big torque. Don’t be afraid to put a low psi turbo on it. You will never break it.
Not trying to burst your bubble here but you're like the 50th person I seen say thanks for taking my recommendation he didn't take your recommendation he took his own recommendation
Dr Pepper cream soda.... warms my heart to see you drinking that matt
This video essentially has almost all of the TH-cam Channels I'm following! Agree that LT is definitely the person to help out on your 8.1!
Holly wasn’t there representing Mischief Maker, nor was Rory there with Trail Mater.
Hey Matt & ALL that were in this video & Tucker for editing !! ""CONGRATS"" on this 1 !!! Glad you were able to find the motor you wanted as looked like a well maintained ""Sub."" you got it from !!! Robby will be looking to see what Rory pulls out of the wilds in MOAB for sure !! Have a great week & Thanks again !! 😄🙂🙃😉🤔🤔🤠😎👍👍👍👍👍👍
The 8.1 seems like the perfect engine for the wrecker, didn't know that engine existed until now 👍
That’s awesome you guys linked up with LT. he is very knowledgeable and OCD about everything lol but his projects are top notch
I love that you are breathing new life in things
Hey if throttle response is so important for you, why not consider a supercharger (aka crank driven turbocharger).
Potential is less but instalation is easier and power delivery more linear than a turbo
I’m a diesel guy, so still a little hurt over not
Dropping one in. But hope you like the 8.1!
As a european I cannot understand why there isn't a diesel in there. But it's Matt's vehicle and it will be a great build regardless.
Good afternoon friends! Let’s watch a great video together 😊
YAY< SJV! 1at!
Good to see you are going with a big block V-8. I grew up in the time of cheap gas and cubic inches & love them still.
Have the 8.1 in my 2001 suburban and love it. One pulling beast.
Brings a tear to my eye to see another 2500 Suburban pulled off the road. But luckily the engine is going to be put to good use!
I love how all the different companies and owners are friends and work with each other and have fun together
I acquired one of those 8.1 Suburban's from the Ministry of Health in Baghdad in 2003 because my military working dog needed A/C....good times.
Wow! Glad to see LT emerge on the show, how cool is that?! Can’t wait to see the heavy wrecker finished and on the trail.
Nice choice in motor!! Whipple makes a blower for that engine as well. Now the question is, 4l80e or allison 1000?
Those Allison transmissions are really tough.
Nice to see all the different content creators. I've been watching LT for a long time and still enjoy the content he creates.
Glad you went with the 8.1. Ls are easy and cheap and quick repairs, but that's the thing it's made that way cause it will need repairs when it's used hard. The 8.1 will last and take it, well worth it in the long run in your line of work.
My advice... go for the turbo. With stock compression and a stock cam, throttle response and low RPM drivability will be exactly the same as stock, but when you want the extra oomph, ya just gotta keep your foot in it a little bit longer.
Man that wrecker is gonna be insane.
Good Choice! 'Luv' the 8.1! Have one in my 01 GMC 2500HD. Allison Trans.
I love LT's channel. As soon as you said you were using an 8.1 I thought of him! It's a small world but I wouldn't want to have to paint it!
definitely should have a diesel for a truck that big and heavy, that truck will be twice as heavy as any application that that engine was intended for, good luck keeping engine temps under control. Awesome truck build, cant wait to see it finished.
i feel so proud when i hear someone installs an axle we made. enjoy that Dana axle
2 stage turbo is a must. heavy loads, up hill ect. Great job! Thanks again.
Good call on going with a big block.
Simply amazing to see all the involvement with this build.
LT IS A WIZ! he’s gonna be a big help!!
This wrecker build is beyond exciting, can’t wait to see this beast done
FREAKIN AWESOME EVERYONE!...thanks 4 video. be kind.
I hope you all know how much I love y'alls channel! Thank you guys for the fantastic content!
The build gets more interesting as it progresses. Thanks for sharing.
I am stoked Matt! You are finally moving ahead in a serious way with the BIG offroad wrecker! I have been so anxious to see how it turns out! I thought you would perhaps go with a diesel, but with the high cost of diesel now, and predicted to go up and stay up, the gas engine makes sense! I am anxious to see this truck at work and the build done to where you can take it out on the trail, so please don't put it on the shelf and make us all wait! Tell Lizzy we are proud of her welding skills, and the rest of the crew is just top notch!
Can't wait to see this wrecker running
My son has the 8.1 with the Allison transmission in a 2004 hd2500.. great combination but 7 MPG, make sure you have a 50 gallon tank Matt!!!
Wow what an action packed episode. What a power house. Can’t wait to see the rest. 👍👍👍❤️