1981 GMC C1500 Performance Engines

Essential 1981 GMC C1500 Performance Engines

B & M – Torque Converter, Holeshot 2000 (Part No.70417)

Torque Converter, Holeshot 2000

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$544.99
The Holeshot Converter is a very good choice for the typical street machine that is looking for better launch capability and more strength. With a furnace brazed turbine, new turbine hub and dual pattern drive lugs on some GM Holeshots.

Product Features:
  • Furnace Brazed Impeller
  • Steel Alloy Pump Drive Tube
  • Heavy Duty Needle Bearing
  • Between Stator and Turbine
  • Furnace Brazed Turbine
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Oil Pan Gasket (Part No.5884)

Ultra Seal: Oil Pan Gasket

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$36.49
Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. A black latex rubber coating is applied to outside of gasket to help seal minor oil pan rail irregularities and eliminate the possibility of oil leakage. Provides excellent sealing and durability. Complete with molded rubber front/rear oil pan seals where applicable. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile rubber composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Complete with molded rubber front/rear oil pan end seals where applicable
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
  • Graphite Non-Wicking Rubber
  • No Cork Particles
  • Easy Removal For Disassembly
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Competition Cams – Engine Valve Spring Kit (Part No.911-16)

Engine Valve Spring Kit

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$759.99
Single Outer Valve Springs from COMP Cams allow you to build the perfect spring assembly for your application. The valve spring creation process is far more involved than most people realize. Selecting the right metal stock and creating the best design is not done by chance. COMP Cams has developed a process that creates the highest quality valve spring available. The result is a product that meets and exceeds the expectations of today’s engine builders and racers.O.D. Dia. 1 I.D. Dia. 2 Damper Seat Load Open Load Coil Bind Rate (Lbs./In.) Titanium Retainer Steel Retainer Cup Seat Shims 1.524 1.110 Y 122 @ 1.900 309 @ 1.400 1.200 373 721, 732 1732, 741 4779* 4757

Product Features:
  • Seat pressure: 122 lbs. @ 1.900″, Open Pressure: 309 lbs. @ 1.400″
  • O.D.: 1.524″, I.D.: 1.110″
  • Single valve springs with damper
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Edelbrock – Water Pump for Small-Block Chevy in Satin Finish (Long) (Part No.8811)

Water Pump for Small-Block Chevy in Satin Finish (Long)

from

$307.99
Maximum cooling for street and racing engines. Internal passages are balanced for maximum flow. Impeller is larger than others for maximum pressure. Impeller vanes dramatically increase flow rates. Equal distribution to both sides of block. Only flows in one direction for optimum efficiency. In the early days of the automotive performance industry, you either ran what was available, or you fabricated something you thought met your needs. Such needs were the building blocks of this industry, and it was through the efforts of many that we have the automotive aftermarket, but it was through the work of one name in particular to which many in the industry owe a great debt, and that name is Edelbrock.

Product Features:
  • Maximum Cooling for Street and Racing Engines
  • Internal Passages Are Balanced for Maximum Flow
  • Impeller is Larger than Others For Max Pressure
  • Impeller Vanes Dramatically Increase Flow Rates
  • Equal Distribution to Both Sides of Block
  • Only Flows in One-Direction for Optimum Efficiency
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Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 249 XTREME ENERGY COMPUTER CONTROLLED HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.12-249-4)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 249 XTREME ENERGY COMPUTER CONTROLLED HYDRAULIC 1 EA

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$276.99
Featuring a quicker valve opening, the Xtreme Energy camshaft profile provides increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve than older, slower grinds. Designed to increase performance without sacrificing driveability and creature comforts, the Xtreme Energy grind family offers gains in torque and horsepower while still delivering adequate vacuum for power brakes and other vacuum dependent accessories. Xtreme Energy camshafts work great in carbureted applications, but offer the best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, lower gear ratios, headers and free flowing exhaust.

Product Features:
  • HYDRAULIC – Xtreme Energy Computer Controlled: Great in throttle body, crossfire or carbureted engine and 305 TPI.
  • 249/260 Advertised Duration, 206/212 Duration @ .050″, .434″/.444″ Lift, 112 Lobe Separation
  • Quicker opening lobe profiles deliver increased responsiveness and more area under the lift curve.
  • Best performance with aftermarket intake manifolds, headers, lower gear ratios etc.
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Edelbrock – Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set (Part No.7802)

Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set

from

$37.99


Product Features:
  • Solid Bushing Chain Resists Stretching
  • For Use with Stock or Edelbrock Camshafts
  • Stressproof Steel Crank Gears
  • 3 Keyway Setting Points To Ensure Accurate Timing
  • True Bearing Surface Rolls with the Sprockets
  • 50 State Street Legal
  • Not for OEM Hydraulic Roller-Lifter Camshaft Eng.
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Competition Cams – CAM & LIFTER KIT, SBC 260H HIGH ENERGY HYD 1 KT (Part No.CL12-206-2)

CAM & LIFTER KIT, SBC 260H HIGH ENERGY HYD 1 KT

from

$323.99
Ideal for use with mainly stock components like rocker arms, intake manifolds, cylinder heads, compression ratio, torque converters and rear gear ratios, the High Energy camshaft grind family is a great choice for street performance applications. Offering

Product Features:
  • Good blend of efficiency and performance.
  • Perfect choice for performance street rebuilds.
  • Work well with mainly stock components such as rockers, manifolds, heads, compression, torque converters and gears.
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Spectre – Water Neck; Chevy Late Model (Part No.4730)

Water Neck; Chevy Late Model

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$23.79
Spectre’s Chevrolet late model water neck offers the normal angled water neck and a 1/2 inch NPT threaded hole for a by-pass hose. This water neck has a chrome plated finish for a lasting look great and includes the bolts.

Product Features:
  • Fits Chevy engines
  • Includes a 1/2 inch NPT threaded hole for by-pass hose
  • Includes bolts
  • Chrome plated
  • Easy to install
  • O-ring/gasket not included
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Edelbrock – Performer Intake Manifold for 1987-95 Small Block Chevy, Satin Finish (Part No.2104)

Performer Intake Manifold for 1987-95 Small Block Chevy, Satin Finish

from

$329.99


Product Features:
  • For Idle to 5500 RPM Street-Driven Performance
  • Dual-Plane Low-Rise Intake w/180 Deg Firing Order
  • Patented Runner Design Ensures Broad Torque Curve
  • Excellent Throttle Response and Mid-Range Power
  • 50-State Street Legal if Correct Carburetor Used
  • Accepts Late-Model Choke; Waterneck; and HEI
  • Accepts A/C And Alternator
  • Accepts Exhaust Heated Chokes
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Edelbrock – Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Chevrolet (Part No.7310)

Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Chevrolet

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$58.99
Product Features:
  • 4.125 in. Cylinder Bore Diameter
  • 0.039 in. Thickness
  • 8.7cc Volume
  • Charcoal Color
  • Two Piece Configuration
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Timing Cover Gasket (Part No.2335)

Engine Timing Cover Gasket

from

$20.29
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Steel core gasket construction
  • Exclusive design permits significantly faster gasket installation while eliminating potential sealing leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Mr. Gasket – Timing Cover Gasket Set (Part No.90)

Timing Cover Gasket Set

from

$21.99
Mr. Gasket Performance Timing Cover Gaskets are high-density cork/rubber blend gaskets that use evenly sized cork particles distributed evenly throughout the rubber binder. The result is a compressible gasket without leak paths. These gaskets create a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot engine oil. Provides excellent flange sealing and durability. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork/rubber blend gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket Set – Standard Duty – Big Block Chevy With Stock Rectangle Ports – 1.75"W X 2.50"H (Part No.108)

Intake Gasket Set - Standard Duty - Big Block Chevy With Stock Rectangle Ports - 1.75"W X 2.50"H

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$29.99
Mr. Gasket Performance Intake Gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. This is a low density material that conforms well to irregular surfaces and has very good crush resistance at high flange pressures. They provide excellent sealing and durability as the material is designed for sealing gasoline, oils, water and coolant in applications up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While die-cut for an excellent fit, they can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications. Comes complete with front & rear manifold end seals. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • Die-cut for an excellent fit
  • Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications
  • Complete with manifold end seals & distributor gaskets if applicable
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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Edelbrock – Intake Manifold Gasket for 1965-1990, Mark IV B/B Chevy, Rec Port (Part No.7208)

Intake Manifold Gasket for 1965-1990, Mark IV B/B Chevy, Rec Port

from

$30.99
Edelbrock part #7208 Intake Gaskets for 1965-1990, Mark IV 396-402-427-454-555, Rectangular Port 6 Bolt Flange with no crossover allow for optimum flow and performance. Any gasket can create a seal, but a good gasket can do it with less clamping force, an

Product Features:
  • 1.82″x2.46″
  • Rectangular Port Style
  • .060″ Thick
  • Two Piece Configuration
  • Composite Material
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Edelbrock – Performer Small-Block Chevy Cylinder Head 64cc Hydraulic Flat Tappet (Part No.60909)

Performer Small-Block Chevy Cylinder Head 64cc Hydraulic Flat Tappet

from

$1009.99
Product Features:
  • 50-State Street Legal Aluminum Cylinder Head
  • Out-of-the-Box Bolt-On Performance
  • 64cc Combustion Chambers Improve Performance
  • Retain Stock Compression Ratio
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET (Part No.2904)

PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET

from

$16.29
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered and manufactured specifically for repair applications
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Validated for fit, form, and function
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2900)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

from

$21.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Meets or exceeds all original equipment specifications
  • Application specific design to ensure a perfect fit
  • Engineered and manufactured specifically for repair applications
  • Unsurpassed quality you can trust
  • Validated for fit, form, and function
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Bolt Kit (Part No.5004)

Intake Bolt Kit

from

$61.99
Finish your custom engine job with these show quality grade 5 chromed bolts, includes AN washers which have no exposed shoulder for a professional appearance. Includes (12) 3/8-16 x 1-1/4 inch bolts and (12) 3/8 inch AN washers.

Product Features:
  • Chrome plated
  • Grade 5
  • AN washers with no exposed shoulder for a professional appearance
  • Ideal For Street Rods/Machines
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Manifold Bolts (Part No.6091)

Intake Manifold Bolts

from

$32.09
These special Grade 8 intake manifold bolts feature a 12-point smaller-than-standard head and flange, and include special extra thick flat washers for optimum clamping pressures. They’re ideal for use where space is minimal, typical on larger runner race manifolds. These bolts and washers are bright zinc plated for protection and good looks.

Product Features:
  • Features 12-point Smaller-than-standard Bolt Head
  • Thick Flat Washers Distribute Optimum Clamp Load
  • Ideal Use Where Space Is Minimal On Race Manifolds
  • Bolts And Washers Zinc Plated For Protection
  • Zinc Plated For Protection
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Edelbrock – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9730)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

from

$99.99
Product Features:
  • Use W/ Valve Springs Part #5703, 5794
  • Set of 16
  • 1.50 in. Outside Diameter
  • Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit (Part No.946G)

Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit

from

$27.49
This is a high quality bolt set that is made of grade 8 steel and will meet your requirements for a quality bolt set, this set will work on original equipment, high performance street, drag or circle track applications.

Product Features:
  • These Are Have A Zinc Dichromate Finish
  • Tall Hex Head Bolt To Prevent Slippage
  • Extra Thick Parallel Ground Washer
  • Washers Provides More Accurate And Uniform Torque
  • Grade 8 Alloy Steel
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit (Part No.7845)

Ultra Seal: Harmonic Balancer Bolt/Washer Kit

from

$27.49
Secure the harmonic balancer or dampener on your Chevy. Works on original equipment, high performance street, drag or circle track applications. Features a heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 alloy steel bolt for strength with a tall hex head to prevent wrench from slipping. An extra thick parallel ground washer provides accurate, uniform torque, and a lock washer is also included.

Product Features:
  • Heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 alloy steel
  • Tall hex head bolt to prevent wrench from slipping
  • Extra thick parallel ground washer provides accurate, uniform torque
  • Washers Provides More Accurate And Uniform Torque
  • Grade 8 Alloy Steel
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Mr. Gasket – High Performance Thermostat (Part No.4365)

High Performance Thermostat

from

$27.49
Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostats are designed to resist large variations of coolant pressure at high RPM (revolutions per minute). This allows them to fully open at correct temperature consistently regardless of engine RPM. The design also provides the high flow that engines operated a higher RPM need. This thermostat also features a copper/brass construction to further resist corrosion. Mr. Gasket High Performance / High Flow Thermostats are suitable for street, drag race, or oval track applications.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 195 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
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Mr. Gasket – High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow (Part No.4364)

High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow

from

$26.99
Mr. Gasket High Performance Thermostats are designed to resist large variations of coolant pressure at high RPM (revolutions per minute). This allows them to fully open at correct temperature consistently regardless of engine RPM. The design also provides the high flow that engines operated a higher RPM need. This thermostat also features a copper/brass construction to further resist corrosion. Mr. Gasket High Performance / High Flow Thermostats are suitable for street, drag race, or oval track applications.

Product Features:
  • Opens At 180 Degrees
  • Designed to Resist Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM
  • Fully Opens at Correct Temperature Consistently Regardless of Engine RPM
  • For High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track
  • Copper & Brass Construction – Resists Corrosion
  • High Flow
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1606)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$27.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Spectre – Valve Cover Gasket Steel reinforced (Part No.585)

Valve Cover Gasket Steel reinforced

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$34.99
This Spectre valve cover gasket is an OEM replacement part that fits small block Chevrolet 265-400 engines. The gasket is made from extra thick rubber with a steel reinforced core that maintains its shape under pressure which helps to provide a superior seal.

Product Features:
  • Fits 265-400 small block Chevy engines
  • OEM replacement
  • Extra thick rubber with steel reinforced core
  • Provides a superior seal
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Mr. Gasket – Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.168)

Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$42.49
Mr. Gasket Performance Valve Cover Gaskets are high-density cork/rubber blend gaskets that use evenly sized cork particles distributed evenly throughout the rubber binder. The result is a compressible valve cover gasket without leak paths. These gaskets create a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot engine oil. Provides excellent flange sealing and durability. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use.brbrThese gaskets are .187 inch thick. Fits Chevy 5.0, 5.7L Vortec V8 with center bolt valve covers.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork/rubber blend gasket material
  • Provides excellent sealing and durability
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1603)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$23.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Blue Stripe performance cork-rubber gaskets use cork particles evenly distributed throughout a rubber binder resulting in a compressible gasket without leak paths.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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1981 GMC C1500 Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC C1500. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 79 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $7.99 to $1,009.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 GMC C1500 running smoothly.

Performance Engines are only as good as their brand. We stock 7 different brands to make sure you have plenty of trusted parts to choose from for your 1981 GMC C1500. Mr. Gasket, Edelbrock, and FEL-PRO Performance are just some of the brands we stock. Search for brands you know or compare prices and reviews to help you decide!

We know you’ll find the perfect Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC C1500, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 381 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Action Plus Water Pumps with 3.7 stars and Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set with 3.3 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Performance Engines to keep your 1981 GMC C1500 rolling for years to come, look no further. Shop online and have your products shipped direct to your door, or pick up at the nearest Advance Auto Parts location today!

Performance Engines Brands To Make Your 1981 GMC C1500 Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC C1500 demands trusted brand parts and products to keep it running. Many trusted brands of Performance Engines make up Advance Auto Parts’ inventory, and all are ready to help make your C1500 the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Performance Engines brands and parts.

Popular B & M Performance Engines

We carry B & M parts in our stock across Performance Torque Converters categories, plus more. For a 1981 GMC C1500, our most popular B & M Performance Engines include:
Tork Master 2400
from $339.99
(1)
Tork Master 2400
Performance Torque Converters

Top 1981 GMC C1500 Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC C1500. Popular Mr. Gasket parts include:
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
from $26.99
(20)
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats
Ultra-Seal Intake Manifold Gasket with Silicone Beading
from $31.99
(18)
Ultra-Seal Intake Manifold Gasket with Silicone Beading
Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets
Intake Manifold Bolts
from $32.09
(5)
Intake Manifold Bolts
Performance Intake Manifold Hardware

FAQs for 1981 GMC C1500 Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC C1500?

Out of 79 Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC C1500, the most popular in our inventory are:
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
from $195.99
(7)
Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-86 Small-Block Chevy
Performance Intake Manifolds
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
from $39.49
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
from $52.99
(1)
Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts
Performance Engine Cylinder Head Gaskets

What are the top-rated 1981 GMC C1500 Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC C1500 based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(3)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“I bought this item for my 1979 Camaro SBC for Street/Strip application. Water pump weighs 4 LBS less than factory, comes with its own cork gaskets. N”
Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set
from $62.99
(3)
Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set
“Bolted right on, instructions were spot on. Great purchase. Hard to go wrong with an Edelbrock company product”
Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit
from $21.49
(2)
Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit
“Seals properly”