Question about engine replacement

[got2haul]

I’m in the planning stage for a future purchase to replace my truck’s engine.  Eventually I intend to replace the transmission as well with a Richmond T10 4 speed, but initially I’ll need to buy and install a new motor first. 

Given my configuration: 2 wheel drive, SM465 4 speed, 3.08 rear axle ratio, is the GM Performance Parts standard ZZ4 crate engine too much power (355 HP, 405 lb/ft torque)?

[bake74]

     For that sm 465, that engine is not to much.  A lot of people on here are going to tell you to put a 2000 or newer 350 in, the advancements way out weigh the older engines. 
     If you plan on installing a new engine/trans combo, why not go with a 5 speed transmission ?

[got2haul]

          If you plan on installing a new engine/trans combo, why not go with a 5 speed transmission ?

I know this is going to sound like a dumb reason for wanting a 4-speed over a 5-speed, but here it is…

When I’m driving, I like to keep my right hand on the shift knob.  With a 4-speed, while in 4th gear, the shifter is in a position close to the seat, making it very comfortable to rest my hand on the shifter.  With a 5-speed, 5th gear is close to the dashboard, causing me to have to stretch my arm out to be able to keep my hand on the shifter knob – not so comfortable.

Simple as that.

[Da67goatman]

That's why we have 6 speeds. lol

[zieg85]

How about a MY6 4 speed overdrive.  OD final drive would be 2.25, really high...

[Senck243]

Why not put a 5 speed in, and custom make a shifter...

[78 Chevyrado]

That's why we have 6 speeds. lol

Good answer!

[1980c10]

Too much horsepower is kind of like having too much money. Never heard or seen it.  (btw those #'s aren't that big)
Even if you had a five speed you could use forth gear.

[bake74]

How about a MY6 4 speed overdrive.  OD final drive would be 2.25, really high...

     This is actually what I am doing with my 74 k10 I am rebuilding, I wanted overdrive and wanted to keep it simple.  Plus I thought it would be different to try a 4 speed overdrive, but it took me a while to find one for a 4wd.
     Like you I sometimes like to drive with my hand resting on the shifter.

[got2haul]

That's why we have 6 speeds. lol

Good answer!

I had car recently with a 6 speed manual.  I very much enjoy running a manual through the gears, but it was a close ratio and I was shifting all the time!  I learned to drive on a 4 speed - call it sentimental, if you will.

As far as the HP numbers - I guess I'm one of the unfortunate few that has never had a high-horsepower vehicle, so I have nothing to compare this engine to.  My primary goals with this swap are drivability and reliability.

[1980c10]

The ZZ4 will make the truck move pretty quickly when needed but will remain very drivable. My engine was dynoed at 393hp/432tq with a 5 speed and likes to embarass rice rockets, mustang owners and even the occasional bike. I like the 5 speed because I can take it down the interstate at little more than an idle and get 17-21 mpg no matter where I drive. You'd be hard pressed to break the sm465 and if you did they are about the cheapest transmission around. I have seen them on CL for arpound $50 several times and ended up giving mine away just to get it out of the garage. 

[bake74]

     And besides what 1980 said about availability, the SM 465 is one of the easiest transmissions I have cracked open.