switching from a 350 to a 454 engine-need advice

[suburbanharry]

Hi, I recently purchased a 1999 suburban and would like to have some
"fun" with it. It currently has a 350 in it, but it seems really lacking in
power. I would like to get a new 454 crate engine and put that in for
starters. My question is, to do this right, what other changes should I
make in the drivetrain, brakes, suspension, etc. ?

Thanks for your advice,

Harry.

[beastofburban]

Think about it. These things cost way less to buy complete than to replace the parts in them. I'll bet you could buy a decent 1999 suburban for under 8k with a 454. When you get done with the tranny upgrades, engine swap out and associated suspension issues you'll probably be into your current Burb for that amount. Just buy a spare and enjoy your time. By the way, I've got a 96 with a 454 vortec and it is a sweet ride. Mileage not to great, 10.5 is the worst 15.2 the best and 12.4 about average. But when It's loaded up and headed over the pass there's no slowin' down on the uphill side.

[J-Ri]

If it's "really lacking in power", fix whatever is wrong. It's probably something simple. The added weight of the 454, bigger tranny, heavier springs, etc. doesn't make for a very big increase in acceleration, and it'll suck down a lot more gas. If I were you, I'd improve the 350. Put on some headers, intake, K&N.... You probably could even put a supercharger/turbo on for the price of everythign you'd need to put in a 454.