GM 'R' & 'K' codes

[shadygrady]

What is the difference between the two. I have Chev van in need of a replacement engine with an 'R' code. I found a 'K' code with 40kms for a decent price. Clutch-drive unit to be installed. I have an almost new brain-box for the 'R' engine. Any ideas?

 

[dgardner]

Your R code engine is a 96-02 Vortec. The K code engine is a 87-95, not a Vortec. Intake manifolds are different, among other things.

 

[shadygrady]

Thanks Dan. It's 5.7 that I'm dealing with, and the parts (fan spacer) in particular is what I need to know will bolt right to the engine block, and the brackets that hold the drive shaft alongside the engine also.

 

[dgardner]

Rob, not sure if everything will bolt up. The big issues are:

The non-Vortec motors are TBI, and the newer R motor is CSFI.

• The wiring harness and computer is completely different for the throttle body injection versus the sequential injection.
• Fuel pressure is different (you would have to change to the older fuel pump).
• Ignition is different (the Vortec motor has a plastic timing cover with crank-position sensor, and harmonic balancer has a matching toothed wheel, older motor doesn't).
• Bolt pattern on the right-side exhaust manifold is different, although the required bolt hole may be present on the K motor (and may even be tapped).

It can be done, but will not be trivial. The K motor makes less HP to boot. Are you sure you want to go down this road?

 

[shadygrady]

With that info, no. All the pieces that I have are specific to the 5.7 R engine. Thanks.