1981 GMC G2500 Performance Engines

Essential 1981 GMC G2500 Performance Engines

Weiand – Action Plus Water Pumps (Part No.9240P)

Action Plus Water Pumps

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

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
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

Edelbrock – Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Chevrolet (Part No.7310)

Cylinder Head Gasket Set for Chevrolet

from

$58.99
Product Features:
  • 4.125 in. Cylinder Bore Diameter
  • 0.039 in. Thickness
  • 8.7cc Volume
  • Charcoal Color
  • Two Piece Configuration
See More

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
See More

Spectre – Chevrolet Small Block V8 Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit (Part No.4699)

Chevrolet Small Block V8 Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit

from

$7.99
Spectre’s Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit is designed to fit Chevrolet Small Block 265-400 V8 engines. This grade 8 bolt is 2-1/2 inches long, and features a plated finish for corrosion resistance. This kit also includes a security lock washer.

Product Features:
  • Fits Chevrolet Small Block 265-400 V8 engines
  • Features a corrosion resistant plated finish
  • Gold iridite finish
  • Grade 8 bolt, 7/16 inch-20 by 2-1/2 inches
  • Includes security lock washer
See More

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
See More

Spectre – Valve Cover Gasket Steel reinforced (Part No.585)

Valve Cover Gasket Steel reinforced

from

$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
See More

B & M – Holeshot 2400 (Part No.70441)

Holeshot 2400

from

$709.99
Holeshot 2400 for GM 1998 to 2002 4L60E Camaro and Firebird with an LS1 engine Application: GM 1998 to 2002 4L60E Camaro and Firebird with LS1 A higher than stock stall speed as delivered by the Holeshot converter will provide several advantages and benef

Product Features:
  • Furnace Brazed Impeller
  • Steel Alloy Pump Drive Tube
  • Heavy Duty Needle Bearing
  • Between Stator and Turbine
  • Furnace Brazed Turbine
See More

Competition Cams – Xtreme Energy 250/256 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit Chevrolet Small Block (Part No.CL12-254-3)

Xtreme Energy 250/256 Hydraulic Flat Cam and Lifter Kit Chevrolet Small Block

from

$321.99
SMALL BLOCK CHEVY HYDRAULIC CAM AND LIFTER KIT – Xtreme Energy: Pro Street/bracket, needs good intake, headers, gear and 3300+ stall.

Product Features:
  • Cam and lifter kit for Small Block Chevy engines
  • CL-Kit includes cam, lifters, assembly lube, instructions and decals
  • HYDRAULIC – Xtreme Energy: Pro Street/bracket, needs good intake, headers, gear and 3300+ stall.
  • 294/306 Advertised Duration, 250/256 Duration @ .050″, .519″/.523″ Lift, 110 Lobe Separation
  • Valve spring upgrade required
See More

Holley – Manifold; SBC Late DP TBI EGR (Part No.300-66)

Manifold; SBC Late DP TBI EGR

from

$463.99
Utilizes late model alternator and A/C bracket mounting provisions. Has vacuum taps off Manifold runners. Uses cable bracket P/N 20-101 for GM 700R4 transmission. Extra installation hardware included.

Product Features:
  • High Rise Dual Plane Design
  • Holley Pro-Jection Tbi Mounting Flange
  • Erg Provisions
See More

Edelbrock – C-26 Small Block Chevy Dual-Quad Intake Manifold (Part No.5425)

C-26 Small Block Chevy Dual-Quad Intake Manifold

from

$504.99
Product Features:
  • Designed for 1500 to 5500 RPM Performance
  • Low Profile for Hood Clearance on Most Vehicles
  • Air-Conditioning/Front Oil Tube Bosses Included
  • Stock Alternator Brackets Do Not Fit
  • Use Edelbrock Fuel Line Kit PN[8088] w/Our Carbs
  • Carburetor Center-to-Center Dimensions = 6-7/16 in
  • Use Edelbrock Linkage Kit PN[7094] w/Our Carbs
  • Best Matched with Edelbrock 500 cfm Carburetors
See More

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.
See More

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
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

FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET (Part No.2912)

PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET

from

$36.99
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.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
See More

Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 268 HIGH ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA (Part No.12-210-2)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 268 HIGH ENERGY HYDRAULIC 1 EA

from

$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.
See More

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

from

$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.
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

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
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

FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set (Part No.1202)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 3 Piece Set

from

$34.49
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
See More

Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.101B)

Intake Gasket

from

$28.99
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. Complete with manifold end seals and distributor gasket (where applicable). 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 where applicable
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
See More

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
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

Edelbrock – TIMING CHAIN (Part No.7844)

TIMING CHAIN

from

$29.99
Product Features:
  • Timing Chain Only
See More

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.
See More

Edelbrock – Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set (Part No.7800)

Performer-Link Adjustable True-Roller Timing Chain Set

from

$62.99


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
  • Not for OEM Hydraulic Roller-Lifter Camshaft Eng.
See More

1981 GMC G2500 Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC G2500. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 78 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 G2500 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 G2500. 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 G2500, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 332 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 G2500 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 G2500 Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC G2500 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 G2500 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 G2500, our most popular B & M Performance Engines include:
Tork Master 2400
from $339.99
(1)
Tork Master 2400
Performance Torque Converters

Top 1981 GMC G2500 Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC G2500. 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 G2500 Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC G2500?

Out of 78 Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC G2500, 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 G2500 Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC G2500 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”