1981 GMC Caballero Performance Engines

Essential 1981 GMC Caballero Performance Engines

Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Chevy 200-229 90 Deg V6 (Part No.2112)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Chevy 200-229 90 Deg V6

from

$306.99
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
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B & M – Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600 (Part No.20482)

Torque Converter, Nitrous Holeshot 3600

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$665.99
Nitrous Holeshot Converters are Built with the same features as the other B&M Holeshots, with the addition of anti-balloon plates. The anti-balloon plates will allow these converters to stand up to the instant horsepower nitrous delivers.

Product Features:
  • 3400-3800 RPM
  • Small And Big Blocks
  • Serious Performance
  • Furnace Brazed
  • Fully Balanced
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FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set (Part No.1200)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set

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$31.49
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • DESIGNED FOR IMPERFECT SEALING SURFACES — Engineered and manufactured specifically for the repair environment to help seal imperfect sealing surfaces
  • SEALING TECHNOLOGIES — Exclusive sealing innovations and technologies with proprietary materials and unique design features to ensure a superior seal for your repair
  • ENGINEERING EXPERTISE — Parts are designed, reviewed, validated and approved by Fel-Pro engineers through rigorous research and development
  • REAL-WORLD TESTED — Parts are tested on-vehicle and validated to ensure optimal performance on the road
  • EVERY PART FOR THE REPAIR — Fel-Pro gasket sets include every part needed for the repair unless otherwise noted
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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 – 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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Edelbrock – TIMING CHAIN (Part No.7844)

TIMING CHAIN

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$29.99
Product Features:
  • Timing Chain Only
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Oil Pan Gasket (Part No.5884)

Ultra Seal: Oil Pan Gasket

from

$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 – Set of 16 Single Springs w/ 1.254" O.D., 1.254" I.D., 1.700" Installed Height (Part No.981-16)

Set of 16 Single Springs w/ 1.254" O.D., 1.254" I.D., 1.700" Installed Height

from

$126.99
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.

Product Features:
  • Seat pressure: 105 lbs. @ 1.700″, Open Pressure: 273 lbs. @ 1.250″
  • O.D.: 1.254″, I.D.: .880″
  • Single valve springs with damper
  • Approximately .490″ max lift at recommended installed height
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Mr. Gasket – Head Gasket (Part No.1130G)

Head Gasket

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$32.99
Mr. Gasket Steel Shim Cylinder Head Gaskets are for high performance street machines, drag racing and oval track racing. With today’s extreme compression ratios you need stronger more durable gaskets. Mr. Gasket steel shim gaskets are made from .020 inch steel shim stock which is thinner than most composite gaskets increasing engine compression. Stress formed embossments will seal the extreme cylinder pressure.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from .020″ steel shim stock.
  • Thinner than composition head gaskets – increases engine compression.
  • Stress formed embossments seal extreme cylinder pressures.
  • For high performance street, drag race and oval track use.
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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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Edelbrock – Performer Buick 3.8L, 4.1L V6 Intake Manifold (Part No.5486)

Performer Buick 3.8L, 4.1L V6 Intake Manifold

from

$381.99


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
  • Not for C-3 and C-4 Electronic Fuel Mngmt Systems
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Edelbrock – Super Victor 4500 for Raised Port 23 Degree Intake Manifold Small-Block Chevy (Part No.2971)

Super Victor 4500 for Raised Port 23 Degree Intake Manifold Small-Block Chevy

from

$494.99
Product Features:
  • 3500-8000 RPM Range
  • Single Plane Type-4500 Style Flange
  • 6.77 in. Front Height, 6.77 in. Center Height, 6.77 in. Rear Height
  • Satin Finish
  • For Raised Port 23 Degree Heads
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Buick 231-252 V6 Even Fire (Part No.5487)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for Buick 231-252 V6 Even Fire

from

$367.99


Product Features:
  • Designed for Optimum Torque and Acceleration
  • Maximum Performance From Idle through Mid-Range
  • Matched To Performer Intake PN[5486]
  • 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
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Competition Cams – High Energy/Marine 212/212 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block (Part No.12-206-2)

High Energy/Marine 212/212 Hydraulic Flat Cam for Chevrolet Small Block

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$284.99
HYDRAULIC – High Energy: Vans, pickups, 4WD and towing, in 350c.i., good idle, strong mid-range torque. OR High Energy Marine: Single or dual engine with inboard/outboard drive for ski and economy.

Product Features:
  • HYDRAULIC – High Energy: Vans, pickups, 4WD and towing, in 350c.i., good idle, strong mid-range torque. OR High Energy Marine: Single or dual engine with inboard/outboard drive for ski and economy.
  • 260/260 Advertised Duration, 212/212 Duration @ .050″, .440″/.440″ Lift, 110 Lobe Separation
  • Work well with mainly stock components such as rockers, manifolds, heads, compression, torque converters and gears.
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Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 268 HIGH ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.12-210-2)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 268 HIGH ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA

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$537.99
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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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.
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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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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 – 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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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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Spectre – Water Neck; Olds (Part No.4733)

Water Neck; Olds

from

$26.99
Spectre’s Oldsmobile V8 water neck fits Oldsmobile 330, 350, 425 and 455 engines. This water neck has been designed around the OEM specifications and has a chrome plated finish for a lasting look that fits great. This water neck has an additional by-pass hose connection and includes the bolts.

Product Features:
  • Fits Oldsmobile 330, 350, 425 and 455 engines
  • Chrome plated
  • Bolts included
  • Designed for OEM fit
  • Easy to install
  • O-ring/gasket not included
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Spectre – Water Neck; Chevy 90 Degree (Part No.4933)

Water Neck; Chevy 90 Degree

from

$50.99
Spectre’s Chevrolet water neck fits Chevy V8 engines and features a 90 degree neck with a 360 degree swivel design for a custom look and fit. This water neck has been designed around the OEM specifications, has a height of 2-7/8 inches and has a polished aluminum finish for a lasting look that fits great. This water neck includes the allen bolts and sealing O-ring.

Product Features:
  • Fits Chevy V8 engines
  • 90 degree neck with a 360 degree swivel design
  • 2-7/8 inch height
  • Includes sealing O-ring and allen bolts
  • Polished aluminum finish
  • Easy to install
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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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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 – 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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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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Edelbrock – Front Timing Cover Gasket Set #6997 For Small-Block Chevy, With Front Seal (Part No.6997)

Front Timing Cover Gasket Set #6997 For Small-Block Chevy, With Front Seal

from

$17.99
Product Features:
  • For Small-Block Chevy
  • One Piece Configuration
  • Includes Front Cover Gasket & Front Seal
  • Includes Necessary Gaskets & Crankshaft Oil Seal
  • For Replacement Or Installation
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1981 GMC Caballero Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC Caballero. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 81 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $7.99 to $766.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 GMC Caballero 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 Caballero. 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 Caballero, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 125 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 Caballero 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 Caballero Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC Caballero 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 Caballero the best it can be. Be sure to browse some of our top Performance Engines brands and parts.

Popular Spectre Performance Engines

We carry Spectre parts in our stock across Performance Engine Harmonic Balancers categories, plus more. For a 1981 GMC Caballero, our most popular Spectre Performance Engines include:
Chevrolet Small Block V8 Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit
from $7.99
(1)
Chevrolet Small Block V8 Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit
Performance Engine Harmonic Balancers

Top 1981 GMC Caballero Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

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

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

Out of 81 Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC Caballero, 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
Intake Manifold Gasket for 1958-1986 Small-Block Chevy
from $26.99
(12)
Intake Manifold Gasket for 1958-1986 Small-Block Chevy
Performance Engine Intake Manifold Gaskets
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

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

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC Caballero 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”
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
from $18.29
(3)
PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET
“This part is incorrectly listed as fitting a 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix. It’s not Advanced’s fault as EVERY shop and site has this part listed for that v”