1981 GMC G3500 Performance Engines

Essential 1981 GMC G3500 Performance Engines

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

Chevrolet Small Block V8 Harmonic Balancer Bolt Kit

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$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
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Edelbrock – Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1976-95 Small Block Chevrolet (Part No.3702)

Performer-Plus Camshaft Kit for 1976-95 Small Block Chevrolet

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$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 – Tork Master 2400 (Part No.20404)

Tork Master 2400

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$339.99
Torque Converter – Tork Master 2400 for GM 1965 to 1991 TH400, 425, 375 and 1968 to 1981 TH350, 375B (not 350C) APPLICATION: Tork Master 2400 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 alloy steel pump drive tube. Needle thrust bearing when factory equipped. New thrust washer between turbine and cover when required. Due to torque converter core availability, the actual converter size may vary but performance functionality will be as advertised.

Product Features:
  • New Precision Pump Drive Tube
  • Pressure Tested
  • Fully Balanced
  • Needle Thrust Bearing
  • New Thrust Washer
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FEL-PRO Performance – Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts (Part No.1004)

Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts

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$52.99
Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets deliver reliable sealing under grueling racing conditions

Product Features:
  • Fel-Pro Performance head gaskets accommodate the high cylinder pressures and cylinder head movement associated with performance engines.
  • Inserted within a stainless steel armor surrounding each cylinder, wire ring design provides highly concentrated sealing around the combustion chamber.
  • Raises combustion sealing force to roughly three times that of standard head gaskets.
  • Steel wire rings for the greatest combustion seal strength.
  • Not intended for use in emission controlled vehicles.
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Mr. Gasket – Rear Main Seal Gasket (Part No.1960)

Rear Main Seal Gasket

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$23.99
This Mr. Gasket Rear Main Seal is made from silicone to allow the seal to handle extreme engine oil temperature. It also provides for an upgrade for that leaky rope style seal and is a direct replacement for a rubber main seal. It’s also injection molded for a precise fit.

Product Features:
  • Repairs That Leaky Rear Main Sail
  • Silicone Rubber to Withstand Extreme Engine Oil Temperatures
  • Upgrade for Rope Seal Equipped Cars or Direct Replacement for Rubber Main Seal
  • Injection Molded for Precise Fit
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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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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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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Timing Cover Gasket (Part No.2335)

Engine Timing Cover Gasket

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$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 – Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16) (Part No.9730)

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

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$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

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$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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Mr. Gasket – Engine Sealing (Part No.6560)

Engine Sealing

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$499.99
Manufactured from cellulose and 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 OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track.

Product Features:
  • Made of high temp silicone or nitrile blend rubber
  • Torque limiters to prevent over tightening
  • One piece molded rubber
  • Fits left and right hand dipsticks
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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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Mr. Gasket – High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow (Part No.4364)

High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow

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$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

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$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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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.
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Competition Cams – Hi-Tech Roller Race Timing Set for Chevrolet 396-454 Big Block (Part No.3110)

Hi-Tech Roller Race Timing Set for Chevrolet 396-454 Big Block

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$141.99
COMP Cams Hi-Tech Roller Race Timing Sets include cast iron camshafts gears, induction hardened billet steel crank sprockets, and pre-stretched, heat-treated double roller chains with heavy-duty large pin design. They feature 3 keyway crank sprockets for

Product Features:
  • Cast iron camshaft gear and induction hardened billet steel crank sprocket
  • Pre-stretched, heat-treated true double roller chain with heavy-duty large pin design; chain available separately
  • Ideal for all street performance and race applications
  • Features 3 keyway crank sprocket for 4-degree incremental adjustability, 4-degree maximum advance/retard
  • Dynamically balanced and quality checked for run-out tolerances
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Mr. Gasket – Ultra Seal: Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.5861)

Ultra Seal: Valve Cover Gasket Set

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$37.99
Ultra-Seal is Mr. Gasket premium valve cover gasket material. It’s manufactured from a high density cork and rubber blend with a black latex coat applied to the outside to help seal minor flange irregularites and eliminate oil leakage. It creates a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot oil. For original equipment replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use. Sold as a pair. These gaskets are an extra thick .312 inch which can help with valvetrain clearance.

Product Features:
  • Manufactured from high-density cork /rubber blend gasket material
  • A black latex rubber coating is applied to outside of gasket to help seal minor flange irregularities and eliminate the possibility of oil leakage
  • Creates a positive seal by controlled swelling of the gasket material when exposed to hot engine oil
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track
  • An extra thick .312″ which can help with valvetrain clearance
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Mr. Gasket – Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.182)

Valve Cover Gasket Set

from

$42.99
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 .312 inch thick. That’s substantially thicker than stock which can allow for additional valve train clearance.brbrFits Chevrolet 396,402,427,454,502 Gen IV, Gen V and Gen VI Big Block.

Product Features:
  • This Gasket Has A Cork Rubber Blend
  • Provides Excellent Sealing And Durability
  • Extra Thick For The Hard To Seal Applications
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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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Weiand – Action Plus Water Pumps (Part No.9240P)

Action Plus Water Pumps

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$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
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Edelbrock – Torker II 2-O Big Block Chevy Intake Manifold (Part No.5061)

Torker II 2-O Big Block Chevy Intake Manifold

from

$432.99
use Performer 2-O #2161.

Product Features:
  • 2500 to 6500 RPM High Performance Street Engines
  • Single-Plane Low-Rise Intake Good for High RPM
  • Ideal for Applications with Limited Hood Clearance
  • For Top-End HP and Adequate Throttle Response
  • Not for Mileage or Emissions Applications
  • Use with Large Oval Port Heads (1975 and Earlier)
  • Will fit Under Corvette Hood Without Modifications
  • Not For Tall Block V8 Engines
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Edelbrock – Street Tunnel Ram Small Block Chevy Intake Manifold (Part No.7110)

Street Tunnel Ram Small Block Chevy Intake Manifold

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$631.99
For 3500 to 7500 PRM. Use where low-end torque is not a prime factor. Great for engines with slightly modified heads. HEI ignition will not clear manifold. Street machines, street rods, pro-street and marine.

Product Features:
  • For 3500 to 7500 RPM
  • Use Where Low-End Torque is Not a Prime Factor
  • Great For Engines w/Slightly Modified Heads
  • Top Has Vacuum Outlet for Power Brakes
  • Will Accept Forward and Sideways Mounted Carbs
  • Carburetor Center-to-Center Dimensions 8.875 in
  • HEI Ignition Will Not Clear Manifold
  • For Street Mach.; Street Rods; Pro-Street; Marine
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Competition Cams – Engine Valve Spring Kit (Part No.911-16)

Engine Valve Spring Kit

from

$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 – Sure Seat Valve Springs for S/B Chevy O.E Cast iron Cylinder Heads (Part No.5703)

Sure Seat Valve Springs for S/B Chevy O.E Cast iron Cylinder Heads

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$65.99
Springs made of highest quality spring wire. Springs precision wound to close tolerances. Non-Rotator style: Dyno tested and street proven. Great match to Edelbrock camshaft kit.

Product Features:
  • For Use With Cast Iron Heads
  • Springs Made of Highest Quality Spring Wire
  • Springs Precision Wound To Close Tolerances
  • Use with Original Equipment Heads Only
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FEL-PRO Performance – Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 9 Piece Set (Part No.1212)

Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Set: 9 Piece Set

from

$27.49
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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Edelbrock – Intake Manifold Gasket for 1985-1995, Chevy V6 200-229-262 (Part No.7209)

Intake Manifold Gasket for 1985-1995, Chevy V6 200-229-262

from

$27.99
Edelbrock part #7209 Intake Gaskets for 1985-1995, Chevy V6 200-229-262 (3.8 and 4.3L) allow for optimum flow and performance. Any gasket can create a seal, but a good gasket can do it with less clamping force, and for a longer period of time. The new MP-

Product Features:
  • 1.28″x2.10″
  • Stock Port Style
  • .060″ Thick
  • Multi 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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1981 GMC G3500 Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC G3500. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 74 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 G3500 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 G3500. 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 G3500, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 288 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 G3500 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 G3500 Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC G3500 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 G3500 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 G3500, our most popular B & M Performance Engines include:
Tork Master 2400
from $339.99
(1)
Tork Master 2400
Performance Torque Converters

Top 1981 GMC G3500 Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC G3500. 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 G3500 Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC G3500?

Out of 74 Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC G3500, 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 G3500 Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC G3500 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”