1981 GMC K1500 Performance Engines

Essential 1981 GMC K1500 Performance Engines

Mr. Gasket – Intake Gasket (Part No.136G)

Intake Gasket

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$43.99
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. 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
  • For OE replacement, high performance street, drag race and oval track use
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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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FEL-PRO Performance – Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts (Part No.1037)

Cylinder Head Gasket: Steel Core Composite, Without Head Bolts

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$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
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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

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

Water Neck

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$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
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Edelbrock – Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 396-402-427-454 V8 (Part No.5895)

Complete Sure Seat Valve Spring Kit for Chevy 396-402-427-454 V8

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$253.99
Product Features:
  • Non-Rotator
  • 1.500 in. Outside Diameter
  • 1.082 in. Inside Diameter
  • 1.340 in. Coil Blind
  • Set of 16
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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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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.1605)

Engine Valve Cover Gasket Set

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$25.49
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.
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Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, SBC 291 MUTHA THUMPR HYDRAULIC ROLLER 1 EA (Part No.12-601-8)

CAMSHAFT, SBC 291 MUTHA THUMPR HYDRAULIC ROLLER 1 EA

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$522.99
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.
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Edelbrock – Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy (Part No.9630)

Pushrod Set for S/B Chevy

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$189.99


Product Features:
  • Case-Hardened Tubing
  • Welded Ends
  • 5/16 in. Diameter
  • Use with or without Hardened Steel Guideplates
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FEL-PRO Performance – PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET (Part No.1886)

PERFORMANCE OIL PAN GASKET SET

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$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.
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Edelbrock – Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Standard/Long in Satin Finish (Part No.8851)

Water Pump Big-Block Chevy Standard/Long in Satin Finish

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$381.99
Product Features:
  • Standard Impeller Rotation
  • 0.625 in. Pilot Shaft
  • 0.750 in. Ball/Ball Bearing
  • 7.3125 in. Block To Hub Height
  • Satin Finish
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Mr. Gasket – Cylinder Head Dowel Pins (Part No.4375)

Cylinder Head Dowel Pins

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$14.99
Dowel pins are precision machined and case hardened for accurate head alignment. Two per set. 5/16 inch x 5/8 inch

Product Features:
  • Precision Machined
  • Case Hardened
  • Give Accurate Alignment
  • 2 Per Set
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Mr. Gasket – Cylinder Head Dowel Pins (Part No.4377)

Cylinder Head Dowel Pins

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$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
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Edelbrock – Engine Cylinder Head (Part No.60849)

Engine Cylinder Head

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$605.99


Product Features:
  • 50-State Street Legal Aluminum Cylinder Head
  • Out-of-the-Box Bolt-On Performance
  • Hand-Blended Intake and Exhaust Bowls
  • CNC-Matched Intake/Exhaust Ports in Std Location
  • Thicker Deck Surfaces than Other Brands
  • Hardened Tip Stainless Swirl-Polished Valves
  • Heli-Coils Rocker Studs And Exhaust Bolt Holes
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Edelbrock – Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam (Part No.60479)

Performer Big-Block Chevy Oval Hydraulic Flat Tappet Cam

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

Performer Series Retainer (Qty 16)

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$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
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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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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 – Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242 (Part No.4243)

Replacement Timing Cover Gasket #4243 For SB Chevy, Fits 2-Piece Part #4242

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$41.99
Product Features:
  • Replacement Gasket Set For PN[4242]
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Manifold Bolt Set – Chevrolet Small Block – Socket Head 3/8"-16 X 1" Bolts & Washers (Part No.956G)

Intake Manifold Bolt Set - Chevrolet Small Block - Socket Head 3/8"-16 X 1" Bolts & Washers

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$17.49
These grade 5 hex head bolts are brite zinc plated for protection and appearance. Hardened flat washers provide uniform torque & prevent galling on aluminum manifolds. Includes twelve (12) 3/8 inch-16 x 1 inch bolts & washers

Product Features:
  • Zinc plated to resist corrosion and provide a clean professional appearance
  • Made from Grade 5 steel for strength and durability
  • Flat washers provide uniform clamp load and prevent galling on aluminum intake manifolds
  • Allen (socket) Head
  • Zinc Plated For Protection
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Mr. Gasket – Intake Bolt Kit (Part No.5003)

Intake Bolt Kit

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

PERFORMANCE REAR MAIN SEAL SET

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

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

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$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.
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Edelbrock – Intake Manifold replacement top gasket (Part No.6989)

Intake Manifold replacement top gasket

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$19.99
Replacement gasket for Edelbrock tunnel ram intake. Use with intake PN(7115). Base PN(7190). Top PN(7191). One gasket only.

Product Features:
  • Replacement Gasket for Edelbrock Tunnel Ram Intake
  • Use w/Intake PN[7115]/Base PN[7190]/Top PN[7191]
  • One Gasket Only
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Edelbrock – RPM Air-Gap Big Block Chevy 2-R Intake Manifold (Part No.7562)

RPM Air-Gap Big Block Chevy 2-R Intake Manifold

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$468.99
Based on performer RPM-series with unique air gap. Air gap cooler and denser mixture for more power. Designed for 1500 to 6500 RPM street-driven power. Dual-plane high-rise intake with 180 degree firing order. Produces incredible top-end horsepower. Retains good throttle response and acceleration. Larger plenum and runners maximize other upgrades. Edelbrock total power package maximizes gains. Available in cast, polished or endurashine finish.

Product Features:
  • Based on Performer RPM-Series with Unique Air Gap
  • Air Gap Cooler and Denser Mixture for More Power
  • Designed for 1500 to 6500 RPM Street-Driven Power
  • Dual-Plane High-Rise Intake w/180 deg Firing Order
  • Produces Incredible Top-End Horsepower
  • Retains Good Throttle Response and Acceleration
  • Larger Plenum and Runners Maximizes Other Upgrades
  • Edelbrock Total Power Package Maximizes Gains
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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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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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1981 GMC K1500 Performance Engines

Maybe you’re in the middle of a full rebuild of that 1981 GMC K1500. Maybe you just need a couple of Performance Engines. Either way, Advance Auto Parts has 83 different Performance Engines in our inventory ranging from $14.99 to $1,268.99. That means you can find the exact parts or products you need to keep that 1981 GMC K1500 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 K1500. 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 K1500, but don’t take our word for it – read our customer ratings and reviews and buy with confidence. Out of the 110 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 K1500 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 K1500 Last

Simple repair, complete replacement, or a full rebuild. No matter the job, your 1981 GMC K1500 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 K1500 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 K1500, 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 K1500 Performance Engines from Mr. Gasket

Mr. Gasket products are another trusted brand when it comes to Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC K1500. 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 K1500 Performance Engines

What are the most purchased Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC K1500?

Out of 83 Performance Engines for the 1981 GMC K1500, 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 K1500 Performance Engines?

Top-rated Performance Engines for your 1981 GMC K1500 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”