1981 GMC C2500 Performance Engines

Essential 1981 GMC C2500 Performance Engines

Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-86 Small-Block Chevrolet (Part No.2103)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1957-86 Small-Block Chevrolet

from

$334.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched to Edelbrock Performer Intakes
  • Includes Hydraulic Lifters and Assembly Lube
  • Major Improvement in Throttle Response and Torque
  • Use For Daily Drivers/Trucks/Vans/RVs/4x4s
  • Take The Guesswork Out Of Camshaft Selection
See More

Edelbrock – Side-Mount Throttle Linkage for B/B Chevy #7075 Victor 2-R Manifold (Part No.7077)

Side-Mount Throttle Linkage for B/B Chevy #7075 Victor 2-R Manifold

from

$224.99
Product Features:
  • Steel Material
  • Sideways Orientation
  • Adjustable
  • 2-Barrel Configuration
  • Made In The USA
See More

Edelbrock – Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 262-400 V8 1957-95 (Part No.5794)

Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 262-400 V8 1957-95

from

$151.99
Complete kit includes retainers and locks. Springs made of highest quality spring wire. Springs precision wound to close tolerances. Includes superior quality steel retainers. Includes 7 degree heat-treated valve stem locks. Retainers and locks are black oxide coated. Non-rotator style: Dyno tested and street proven. Great match to Edelbrock camshaft kit.

Product Features:
  • Complete Kit: Includes Retainers And Locks
  • Springs Made of Highest Quality Spring Wire
  • Springs Precision Wound To Close Tolerances
  • Includes Superior Quality Steel Retainers
  • Includes 7 deg. Heat-Treated Valve Stem Locks
  • Retainers and Locks Black Oxide Coated
  • Non-Rotator Style: Dyno Tested and Street Proven
  • Great Match to Edelbrock Camshaft Kit
See More

FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1886)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

from

$63.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Rigid core, molded silicone rubber gaskets utilize the one-piece molded rubber technology for a perfect fit, ease of installation and include compression limiters to prevent overtightening.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Cylinder Head Bolts (Part No.941G)

Ultra Seal: Cylinder Head Bolts

from

$73.99
These grade 8 alloy steel, longer length bolts are designed to compensate for thread length lost when using head bolt washers. This allows increased torque and clamping. Set of 16 does one cylinder head.

Product Features:
  • Cylinder Head Bolts
  • Longer-Than-Stock
  • High Quality Grade 8 Alloy
  • Increase Torque Settings
  • Higher Clamp Loads On Gasket
See More

Mr. Gasket – Cylinder Head Dowel Pins (Part No.4377)

Cylinder Head Dowel Pins

from

$17.79
Big Block Chevrolet tubular head dowel, .638/.639 inch o.d. (outer diameter) by 1/2 inch. Packaged two per set. These hard to find dowel pins are precision machined then case hardened for accurate alignment in engine assembly.

Product Features:
  • Precision Machined
  • Case Hardened
  • Give Accurate Alignment
  • 2 Per Set
See More

FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET (Part No.1602)

PERFORMANCE VALVE COVER GASKET SET

from

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

Product Features:
  • Die cut silicone rubber gaskets conform to out-of-flat covers
  • Great for on-again/off-again situations
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

Mr. Gasket – Intake Bolt Kit (Part No.5003)

Intake Bolt Kit

from

$75.99
Finish your custom engine job with these show quality grade 5 chromed 12-point bolts, includes AN washers which have no exposed shoulder for a professional appearance. Includes (12) 3/8-16 x 1 inch bolts with (12) 3/8 inch AN washers.

Product Features:
  • Chrome plated
  • Grade 8
  • 12-point head
  • AN washers with no exposed shoulder for a professional appearance
See More

Weiand – Action +Plus; Water Pump (Part No.9212P)

Action +Plus; Water Pump

from

$215.99
Weiand’s light weight, performance aluminum mechanical Action-Plus water pumps give a weight saving of 30 percent to 50 percent over stock cast-iron pumps. These pumps feature a premium quality bearing and seal that have twice the load capacity of stock pumps. Weiand’s exclusive housing counter bore keeps the bearing form walking out. All pumps are designed with the necessary bracket bosses and water connections to fit popular street applications.

Product Features:
  • Twisted Snout Water Pump Design For Updated Style
  • Street Performance
  • Heavy Duty Shaft w/5/8 in. Pilot
  • Six-Blade Stamped Steel
  • Anti-Cavitation Impeller
  • 100 Percent Leak Tested
See More

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
See More

Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.116)

Intake Gasket

from

$40.19
Mr. Gasket Performance Intake Gaskets are manufactured from cellulose/nitrile composition gasket material. They provide excellent sealing and durability. Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications. 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.
  • Can be trimmed if necessary for modified port applications.
  • Complete with manifold end seals and distributor gasket.
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use.
See More

Edelbrock – Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam (Part No.60479)

Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam

from

$1070.99
Product Features:
  • Complete Single For Flat Tappet
  • 110cc Combustion Chamber Volume
  • 290cc Intake/110cc Exhaust Runner Volume
  • 2.19 in. Intake/1.88 in. Exhaust Valve Diameter
  • 0.562 in. Deck Thickness
See More

Edelbrock – TIMING CHAIN (Part No.7844)

TIMING CHAIN

from

$29.99
Product Features:
  • Timing Chain Only
See More

Mr. Gasket – Timing Cover Seal (Part No.17)

Timing Cover Seal

from

$30.19
If you are changing your camshaft or replacing the timing set, make sure to replace this seal at the same time! Made from Nitrile rubber.

Product Features:
  • Nitrile Rubber And High Density Cork
  • Will Not Shrink Or Stick
See More

Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy (Part No.9646)

Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy

from

$203.99
Edelbrock part #9646 Pushrods are designed for small-block Chevy V-8 engine applications. These one-piece pushrods are manufactured from high quality 4130 Chromoly steel tubing that has been surface hardened for maximum durability. They have precise forme

Product Features:
  • 7.25 in. Length
  • 0.312 in. Diameter
  • 4130 Chromoly Steel Material
  • Black Oxide Finish
  • Made In The USA
See More

FEL-PRO Performance – Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts (Part No.1037)

Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts

from

$65.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • PROPRIETARY COATING – Nonstick anti-friction coating seals small surface imperfections
  • NO RETORQUE DESIGN – Steel core helps eliminate the need for retorquing head bolts
  • SUPERIOR SEAL – Precise embossed Printoseal sealing beads at all vital areas to eliminate leak paths
  • STRONG AND DURABLE – Features graphite or reinforced fiber facing material and steel armor for strength and durability
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES – Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
See More

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
See More

Edelbrock – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9721)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

from

$95.99
Valve spring retainers for use OE cast iron heads. Superior quality heat-treated steel. Machined for strength with black oxide finish. Finish ensures rust and corrosion protection.

Product Features:
  • Valve Spring Retainers for Use OE Cast Iron Heads
  • Superior Quality Heat-Treated Steel
  • Machined for Strength with Black Oxide Finish
  • Finish Ensures Rust and Corrosion Protection
See More

Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 284 XTREME ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.12-250-3)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 284 XTREME ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA

from

$258.99
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,

Product Features:
  • Excellent performance in street carbureted applications.
  • More vacuum allows an increase in duration for improved performance and assists power brakes.
  • 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.
See More

Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 295 BIG MUTHA THUMPR HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.12-602-4)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 295 BIG MUTHA THUMPR HYDRAULIC 1 EA

from

$529.99
Designed to deliver an aggressive, hard-hitting exhaust note at idle, the Thumpr camshaft series from COMP Cams also delivers excellent horsepower gains and a broad torque curve. A perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods, the Thumpr series’ early i

Product Features:
  • Early intake valve opening and long exhaust duration create optimum overlap for powerful, hard-hitting exhaust note.
  • Best with aftermarket converters and more rear gear.
  • Three unique cam designs for each application that deliver excellent horsepower gains and broad torque curve; perfect choice for muscle cars and street rods.
See More

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

Torque Converter, Holeshot 2000

from

$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
See More

B & M – Tork Master 3000 (Part No.20402)

Tork Master 3000

from

$499.99
Torque Converter – Tork Master 3000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) APPLICATION: Tork Master 3000 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) The Tork Master is B&M’s lowest cost performance torque converter. The Tork Master is an excellent all-around performance street converter. The best ‘value priced’ street converters available, Tork Master converters come with a new precision pump drive tube and all are pressure tested and fully balanced. The Tork Master torque converter is not recommended for big block or supercharged applications. New allow steel pump drive tube. Needle thrust bearing when factory equipped. New thrust washer between turbine and cover when required.

Product Features:
  • New Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Pressure Tested
  • Fully Balanced
  • Needle Thrust Bearing
  • New Thrust Washer
  • Washer Between Turbine and Cover
See More

FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2918)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

from

$42.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fluoroelastomer compound combines optimum resistance to heat, oils and abrasion for longivity.
  • Optimizes performance under high crankcase vacuum conditions, elevated temperatures and high RPM levels.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2919)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

from

$37.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fluoroelastomer compound combines optimum resistance to heat, oils and abrasion for longivity.
  • Optimizes performance under high crankcase vacuum conditions, elevated temperatures and high RPM levels.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

Mr. Gasket – Water Neck (Part No.2557)

Water Neck

from

$27.49
Precision die cast, these water necks are first polished to a high luster, then chrome plated. Features an O-ring style seal to prevent water leaks. Comes with O-ring gasket and mounting bolts.

Product Features:
  • Complete with o-rings and mounting bolts
  • Features an o-ring style seal to prevent water leaks
  • Chrome plated
  • 1/2″ NPT port can be used for various coolant temp related sensors or switches
See More

Spectre – Water Neck; Chevy Late Model (Part No.4730)

Water Neck; Chevy Late Model

from

$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
See More

Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs (Part No.1076)

Ultra Seal: Screw-In Rocker Arm Studs

from

$65.99
Mr. Gasket screw-in rocker arm studs are manufactured from heat treated black oxide coated Grade 8 steel. Ideal for high performance street applications. OE style press in rocker studs can actually pull out of the cylinder head when using high lift camshafts. Includes sixteen studs 3/8-24 x 1.47 inch long top x 7/16-14 bottom.

Product Features:
  • Black Oxide Coated Grade 8 Steel
  • Kit Contains 16 Studs
  • Easy To Install
  • Heat Treated Steel
  • Grade 8 Steel
See More

Competition Cams – MAGNUM ROLLER ROCKERS, SMALL BLOCK CHEVY 1.52 1 ST (Part No.1412-16)

MAGNUM ROLLER ROCKERS, SMALL BLOCK CHEVY 1.52 1 ST

from

$213.99
These Magnum Roller Rocker Arms for Chevy V8 265-400 and V6 200-262 applications are the ultimate street rocker. With a 3/8″ stud diameter and 1.52 ratio, they are designed for serious performance enthusiasts. All Magnum Roller Rocker Arms are constructed

Product Features:
  • Roller tip reduces friction while stiff design and superior ratio accuracy yield more effective valve lift
  • For applications with less than 350 lbs. of open spring pressure
  • Constructed from 8620 chromemoly steel, a superior material that will not flex and ensures maximum lift
  • Ultimate street roller rocker arm designed for serious performance enthusiasts
See More

1981 GMC C2500 Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC C2500. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 131 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $14.99 to $1,322.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 GMC C2500 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 C2500. 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 C2500, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 201 reviews in this category, some of the top rated parts include Action Plus Water Pumps with 3.7 stars and Action Plus Water Pumps with 1.5 stars.

So if you’re in the market for aftermarket Performance Engines to keep your 1981 GMC C2500 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 C2500 Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC C2500 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 C2500 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 C2500, our most popular B & M Performance Engines include:
Tork Master 2400
from $339.99
(1)
Tork Master 2400
Performance Torque Converters
Tork Master 3000
from $499.99
(1)
Tork Master 3000
Performance Torque Converters

Top 1981 GMC C2500 Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC C2500. 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

FAQs for 1981 GMC C2500 Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC C2500?

Out of 131 Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC C2500, 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
Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 9 Piece Set
from $27.49
This product is not rated
Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 9 Piece Set
Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets

What are the top-rated 1981 GMC C2500 Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC C2500 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”
Action Plus Water Pumps
from $215.99
(2)
Action Plus Water Pumps
“The twisted neck comes to far up on the hub. For a 2 groove pulley it causes the pulley to hit the water pump. You will also need new bolts for the”
MAGNUM ROLLER ROCKERS, SMALL BLOCK CHEVY 1.52 1 ST
from $213.99
(1)
MAGNUM ROLLER ROCKERS, SMALL BLOCK CHEVY 1.52 1 ST
“just spill on break in oil on rocker wheels,adjust nut down till u can’t go any more and then back off 1/2 turn and your done no noise on start up eve”