Somewhat of an introduction w/?'s on 4x4 LS swap

[MANCHU1-9IN]

I had no idea where to put this, so MODs please move if there is a more appropriate area.

I am nearing completion on an LS swapped K10, and have ran into a minor snag. But first a little about the truck..

This past October I purchased an 85 K10 Silverado, Single cab short bed for fairly cheap. The plan was always a mild LS swap to have some fun with. Here are some specs of what I have so far:

Engine:
LM7 5.3l
799 heads untouched (My DCR is in the crapper)
Isky cam 206/212 112+2.5
all supporting mods for cam
Headers to come eventually
BPAutomotive wire harness

Trans/T-case:
2003 4l80E stock
NP208 that needs input shaft swap and refresh

Fuel system:
original dual 16 gal tanks
87 sending units
AC EP381 in-tank pumps
87 switch for tanks
Pollak switching valve
SS braided -8AN feed lines (overkill I know, FI later?  )
SS braided -6AN return
All Russell fittings/filters

I have majority of the parts to complete the swap just need the time to finish. The engine is complete in long block form and sitting in the engine bay. I have been very surprised with how well this build has gone with only a few minor snags.

Regarding my question... While dropping in the 5.3 I realized the engine cross member in the way and needs to be modified, or I find an aftermarket solution. In my initial research, I never came across anyone having this issue (did I do something wrong?). My mounts are Dirty Dingo's and there customer service said to either cut the cross member or run an f-body pan. In all honesty I dont see that pan fitting either.

So to the guys/gals that have done this swap in 4x4's, Did you have this same problem? What was your solution?

I found that ORD makes a tubular cross member but I am not sure if it will work either. I certainly do no want to spend $200 to find out it doesn't.
Thanks ahead of time for any help, and if anyone has any questions or concerns about my build, please do not hesitate to ask, you will not hurt my feelings 

Pictures will come later tonight, but for now I have to go make moneys   





 

[Captkaos]

I haven't done a 4x4 yet, but some people have had to modify the crossmember, but not sure why.  If you are using dirty dingo mounts you should be able to mount the trans and put the engine in and then set the mounts in place in the same place the trans was..  Here is a 85 K10 with Dirty Dingo mounts and the stock crossmember.

[MANCHU1-9IN]

Thanks for posting that up Capt. Comparing the engine placement of the pic with mine, they seem about the same. Curious though, what trans was behind the engine? I know my 4l80 is about 3 or 4 inches longer than the 700r4 (assuming that's what is back there) and I was hoping that I would be able to adjust the engine forward to keep from having to go with custom drives shafts.
Once I get the new input shaft for the 208, I'll bolt the trans in and get an idea of engine placement.

[Captkaos]

Mine has a 4L80E but it is 2WD.

[MANCHU1-9IN]

Capt. do you know what trans was behind the engine pictured?
Once I have everything put together, I'll update this thread in case someone stumbles across it with similar questions.

[Captkaos]

It had a TH400 behind it.  I wouldn't move the engine forward, shortening a driveshaft is easier than lengthening.  You only have some much space to move forward.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/showthread.php?t=554783

[MANCHU1-9IN]

I believe the 4l80 is a bit longer than the 400. Unfortunately since I am 4WD, both shafts will need to be modified unless I manage to keep the t-case placement the same, which I doubt.
I ordered everything to complete the NP208 and trans, now I just need to find the collar or adapter to mate both together, and holly cow those are ridiculously expensive used!!