1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products

Essential 1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Street Fire; GM V8 Vortec; 96-00 (Part No.5592)

Distributor; Street Fire; GM V8 Vortec; 96-00

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$373.99
These Street Fire distributors are ready to drop into your V8 engine to replace the worn OEM piece. A factory style ignition module is included along with a durable new cap and rotor. GM moved to this distributor in the late 1990s and only used them for a few years. The unique flat cap design acts as a ‘correct-a-cap’ meaning that the even number spark plug wires are all on the passenger side while the odd numbers are all on the driver’s side.

Product Features:
  • Great OEM Update; w/Performance Upgrades
  • Unique Flat Cap Design Acts As A Correct-A-Cap
  • Odd Wires On Driver Side; Even On The Passenger
  • Perfect For Budget Minded Enthusiasts
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Hays – Flexplate: Chevy 400 (168T) (Part No.10-015)

Flexplate: Chevy 400 (168T)

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$169.99
Constructed of thicker than stock steel plate to withstand the stress of high stall speed converters and high RPM engine. Zinc dichromate plated to resist rust and corrosion. Meets SFI specification 29.1 for racing.

Product Features:
  • Thicker Than Stock Steel Plate
  • Ring Gear Securely Welded
  • Dual Bolt Patterns
  • Zinc-Dichromate Plated To Resist Corrosion
  • Withstands High Torque and RPM
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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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Holley – Mechanical Fuel Pump (Part No.12-327-13)

Mechanical Fuel Pump

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$165.99
Mechanical fuel pump made from heavy duty construction for continuous high RPM operation. Fuel body casting can be rotated to accommodate various plumbing situations. Fuel pressure regulator is not required.

Product Features:
  • High Output Fuel Flow
  • Flows 130 gph Free Flow
  • Shutoff Pressure Pre-Set From 7.5 To 9 PSI
  • Fuel Pressure Regulator Required Recommend P/N 12-704
  • Heavy Duty Construction For Continuous High rpm Operation
  • Redesigned High Flow Valves Ensure Adequate Fuel Delivery
  • Fuel Body Casting Can Be Rotated For Plumbing Situations
  • Inlet And Outlet Tapped For 3/8 in. NPT
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Spectre – Oil Pan Big Block Chevy (Part No.5505)

Oil Pan Big Block Chevy

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$103.99
Spectre’s Oil Pan was designed for 1965-1990 Big Block Chevrolet 396-454 engines. This stock capacity pan features a raw finish and durable steel construction. Precision engineered for optimum fit and function, this high quality OEM replacement part is easy to install.

Product Features:
  • For 1965-1990 big block Chevrolet 396-454
  • Stock capacity
  • Easy to install with no special tools or skills required
  • Does not fit GEN V engine with one-piece rear main seal
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Energy Suspension – Hyper-Flex Polyurethane Cab & Body Mount Set (Part No.3.4103G)

Hyper-Flex Polyurethane Cab & Body Mount Set

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$116.99
Will replace distorted and worn-out original rubber mounts to maintain car body and truck cab to bed alignment. Original rubber mounts are so soft they often crack, distort, and crush so badly they often fall off and aluminum body mounts are too harsh for street use that they tend to break and cause other components to break. Energy’s specially formulated Hyper-Flex polyurethane cab and body mounts combine the best qualities of both: they’re soft enough for a smooth ride, yet rugged enough for the most demanding road or track. Most sets have a strong zinc plated steel ring molded into them – for added durability and when the application requires it.

Product Features:
  • Assures Longer Lasting Cab to Bed Alignment
  • Replace to Restore Ride Height
  • Gain Durability
  • Stronger Than Original Rubber Mounts
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Accel – Adj:Vac Adv GM V8 Hei Dist (Part No.31035)

Adj:Vac Adv GM V8 Hei Dist

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$48.49
This unit permits a seamless wide range of adjustment to both amount and rate of ignition advance. This unit helps increase horsepower and throttle response. It provides maximum spark advance while preventing detonation or “pinging”. This kit includes an allen wrench for easy adjustment along with instructions.

Product Features:
  • Adjustable Vacuum Advance
  • Increases Horsepower And Throttle Response
  • Includes Allen Wrench For Adjustments
  • Instantly Increase Horsepower
  • Maximum Possible Spark Advance
  • Not Legal For Sale/Use In CA
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Edelbrock – VALVE COVERS (Part No.4248)

VALVE COVERS

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$127.99
Product Features:
  • Polished Finish
  • Raised Fins w/Black Mat Background
  • Detailed With Allen Hex Heads
  • 2 Piece Look; 1 Piece Construction
  • Clears Most Roller Rockers
  • Clears Valvetrain Components
  • Heavy Gauge
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Spectre – Spectre Replacement Air Filter (Part No.HPR0326)

Spectre Replacement Air Filter

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$41.49
Spectre’s High Performance Replacement Air Filters are engineered to outperform ordinary paper filters by providing increased air flow for improved performance. Manufactured using high quality materials including pre-dyed synthetic media, urethane, and steel mesh, this performance air filter is factory pre-oiled and ready to use. Use a Spectre Accucharge cleaning and re-oiling kit, part number HPR4820, to maintain your filter’s condition.

Product Features:
  • Designed to be superior to stock paper filters
  • Comes pre-oiled
  • Designed for an easy installation with OE fit
  • Made with pre-dyed media for lasting color
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Energy Suspension – Sway Bar Bushing Set (Part No.3.5136G)

Sway Bar Bushing Set

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$41.99
Energy Suspension performance polyurethane sway bar bushings and end links offer the greatest improvement in performance among all the products Energy offers. They make a vehicle’s sway bar system much more effective like adding a larger, higher performance sway bar! Economy, increased efficiency, and easy installation are just some of the reasons these products are so popular. Made of Hyper-Flex polyurethane that lasts much longer than O.E.M. rubber bushings.

Product Features:
  • Allows Sway Bar System to Work At 100% Efficiency
  • Zerk Type Fittings
  • Allows for Periodic Greasing
  • Lasts Much Longer Than OEM Rubber Bushings
  • Handling Characteristics Improve Dramatically
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Mr. Gasket – Valve Cover Gasket Set (Part No.179)

Valve Cover Gasket Set

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$36.99
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 262,265,267,283,307,327,350,400 Gen I Small Block with Perimeter Bolt Valve Covers.

Product Features:
  • Provides Excellent Flange Sealing And Durability
  • For High-Performance Street, Drag Race & Oval Track Use
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Mr. Gasket – Alternator (Part No.5122)

Alternator

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$288.99
These Mr. Gasket chrome alternators are remanufactured to exceed original equipment specifications for maximum dependability. This 10SI style 80 amp alternator can be used as an original equipment replacement OR as a 1-wire alternator.

Product Features:
  • Fits Most 1973-1983 GM Vehicles
  • Bolt Spacing 6.6″
  • 80 Amps
  • GM 10SI Style Alternator
  • Chrome Plated Finish
  • 1-Groove V-belt pulley – included
  • Internal Regulator
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Mr. Gasket – Distributor Hold-Down Clamp (Part No.1009)

Distributor Hold-Down Clamp

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$9.99
Add sparkle to your engine with this chromed hold-down clamp. With bolt and gasket. Serrations on the bottom prevent distributor and magneto rotation for accurate timing.

Product Features:
  • Rolled Edges For Strength
  • Ideal For Magnetos
  • Ideal For Ignition Distributor
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Mr. Gasket – Billet Style Aluminum Water Pump Pulley (Part No.5315)

Billet Style Aluminum Water Pump Pulley

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$103.99
The pulley is machined from aluminum and heat treated for strength. The satin finish is a more subtle alternative to chrome and offers a hi-tech look. Compliments crankshaft pulley #5317 or 5318.

Product Features:
  • Made from aluminum
  • Heat treated for strength
  • Satin finish for a more subtle hi-tech look than chrome
  • Matches crankshaft pulley #5317 or #5318
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Energy Suspension – Leaf Spring Bushing Set (Part No.3.2128G)

Leaf Spring Bushing Set

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$99.99
Adds a dramatic amount of performance and durability to any vehicle, cars, trucks and SUVs. Helps the vehicle be in control – when maneuvering through turns, during standing start accelerations, braking, even over bumps and berms. Made of Energy’s Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane which lasts 5 -10 times longer than conventional rubber components.

Product Features:
  • Made of Superior Hyper-Flex+ Material
  • Adds Dramatic Amount of Performance/Durability
  • Helps Vehicle Be in Control
  • Allows the Suspension to Function Properly
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Energy Suspension – High Performance Transmission Mount for Street & Racing Vehicles (Part No.3.1108G)

High Performance Transmission Mount for Street & Racing Vehicles

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$41.99
A true performance application component for cars, trucks, hot rods, racing/competition, yet popularly used for street vehicles when more horsepower is added. Soft running enough to absorb vibrations for street use yet rugged for racing use. Helps control torque on high performance vehicles. Maintains proper drive shaft angle to help prevent early wear and unexpected power train damage. Replaces the original, short lived and typically too-soft rubber mounts and outdates those hard-running metal transmission mounts. Resistant to under vehicle fluid oils, coolants and road contaminants. Made of Energy’s Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane and heavy duty hardware – for added durability.

Product Features:
  • Unique Safety Interlock Design
  • Impervious to Vehicle Oils and Chemicals
  • Strong Enough Too Handle High Performance
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MSD Ignition – Crank Trigger Kit; Small Block Chevy (Part No.8610)

Crank Trigger Kit; Small Block Chevy

from

$443.99
For a long time, racers have known that one of the best things to do to an engine to improve its performance is to stabilize the ignition timing. The MSD flying magnet crank trigger system does exactly that by using magnets embedded in an aluminum wheel. The MSD flying magnet crank trigger uses four magnets secured in the aluminum trigger wheel that pass by a stationary non-magnetic pick-up to trigger the ignition. This flying magnet design produces accurate trigger signals and the non-magnetic pick-up cannot be false triggered. Each flying magnet crank trigger includes a two-piece mounting bracket for the non-magnetic pick-up that in most cases will work on either the passenger side or driver’s side of the engine (the SB Chrysler and SB Ford brackets mount on only one side). The adjustable bracket provides a wide range of timing adjustment and spacers are included. These systems will trigger MSD 6, 7, 8 and 10 series ignitions and all MSD timing accessories.

Product Features:
  • 7 in. Diameter
  • Absolutely the most accurate way to trigger the ignition.
  • The non-magnetic pickup cannot be false triggered.
  • Powerful magnets are embedded in a billet aluminum trigger wheel.
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Hays – Power Train (Part No.85-103)

Power Train

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$530.99
High burst strength woven lining to withstand heat and higher engine RPM. Heavy-duty sprung hub assembly to allow smooth engagement and steady torque transfer without chatter. Recommended for high horsepower street vehicles in addition to occasional drag strip use.

Product Features:
  • Built As Matched Assembly
  • Exceptional Performance
  • Exceptional Durability
  • Long Term Dependability
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Energy Suspension – Hyper-Flex System (Part No.3.18102G)

Hyper-Flex System

from

$262.99
Product Features:
  • Incredible Improvement in Control
  • Maintains Proper Caster and Camber Alignment
  • Increase in Handling and Control
  • Greatly Reduce Wheel Hop on Quick Acceleration
  • Even Braking Control is Improved
  • Better Suspension Stability
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Mr. Gasket – Enhancement Products (Part No.2060)

Enhancement Products

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$10.49
This chrome plated breather, embossed with a Mr. Gasket logo, is perfect for race car vacuum balance systems and OEM use. It fits any 1 1/4 inch diameter hole. It has metal baffle/foam element with 1 inch outer diameter neck and 5/8 inch outer diameter breather tube.

Product Features:
  • Internally battled
  • High-porosity filter
  • Ideal for high performance
  • Includes rubber grommet
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Spectre – Water Neck; Chevy 90 Degree (Part No.4933)

Water Neck; Chevy 90 Degree

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$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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Competition Cams – VALVE SEALS, TEFLON 3/8" 1 ST (Part No.505-16)

VALVE SEALS, TEFLON 3/8" 1 ST

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$31.99
COMP Cams offers a complete line of valve stem seals, from the umbrella seals to the positive-stop Teflon seal. These seals are a must to keep unwanted oil from entering the combustion chamber through the clearance in the valve guides. The umbrella seal is normally used when a larger-than-stock diameter spring is used, in the case of a double spring, the positive-stop Teflon seal is used. The umbrella seals require no machining, but with the Teflon seal it is necessary to disassemble the heads and machine the top of the guide with a special .530 diameter cutter. Whenever you are planning an engine overhaul or a cam change, don’t forget the valve seals.

Product Features:
  • Work with .530″ guides and 3/8″ valve stem diameter
  • Valve stem oil seals keep unwanted oil from entering the combustion chamber
  • Several different types of valve seals are offered
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Dynomax – Dual Header Exhaust System Kit for 1973-89 GMC/Chevrolet 4WD Trucks/SUVs (Part No.89004)

Dual Header Exhaust System Kit for 1973-89 GMC/Chevrolet 4WD Trucks/SUVs

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$134.99
Give your vintage vehicle’s exhaust system an upgrade with a DynoMax? dual header kit. Designed to attach to headers, it features a special reducer that allows for a variety of mounting options.

Product Features:
  • COMPATIBILITY — Designed for a variety of full-size 1973-89 GMC 4WD trucks and Chevrolet 4WD SUVs; see product information for compatibility and engine spec
  • BUILD IT YOURSELF — Design and custom fabricate your own exhaust system with this kit that attaches to OE headers
  • FLEXIBLE MOUNTING — Special reducer design allows for a variety of mounting options
  • IMPROVED FLOW CAPACITY — Smooth bends improve flow capacity over traditional bends
  • SPECS — Extra-long tailpipes with side exits with a full 2.25-in. diameter; tail pipes exit each side of vehicle behind rear tires
  • COMPLETE SOLUTION — Includes all the necessary clamps, hangers, flanges, gaskets, mounting hardware, intermediate, extension and tail pipes
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS — Made from quality aluminized steel for durability and long life
  • PREMIUM MATERIALSÿ–ÿMade from quality aluminized steel for durability and long life
  • BETTER TOGETHER — Complete your system with premium DynoMax mufflers and DynoMax accessories for a complete performance exhaust system
  • WARNING — Not legal for use on pollution-controlled motor vehicles; headers are for racing use only and not intended or applicable for highway use
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FEL-PRO Performance – Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts (Part No.1003)

Cylinder Head Gasket: Multi-Layered Steel, Without Head Bolts

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$39.49
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 – VALVE SPRINGS, 1.509" DUAL 1 ST (Part No.924-16)

VALVE SPRINGS, 1.509" DUAL 1 ST

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$788.99
Dual Valve Springs from COMP Cams are manufactured from Super Clean wire and subject to extensive quality control testing to deliver a valve spring assembly with superior strength, durability and valve train stability, no matter what the application. The dual spring design creates a stronger valve spring that can easily handle the increased lift found in extreme stress applications. COMP Cams Dual Valve Springs exceed the expectations of today’s engine builders and racers.

Product Features:
  • Seat pressure: 112 lbs. @ 1.900″, Open Pressure: 355 lbs. @ 1.200″
  • O.D.: 1.509″, I.D.: 0.697″
  • Dual valve springs with damper
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Competition Cams – CAMSHAFT, BBC 280 MAGNUM HYD 1 EA (Part No.11-208-3)

CAMSHAFT, BBC 280 MAGNUM HYD 1 EA

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$247.99
An older member of the COMP Cams grind family, the Magnum series of camshafts offers excellent performance gains over stock without the added wear and tear associated with more aggressive camshafts. Ideal for use with higher compression ratio engines that

Product Features:
  • Best with aftermarket torque converters and 9.5:1 compression.
  • Great high RPM power.
  • Easy on valve train parts.
  • Can be used with mild ratio rocker arms and traditional performance valve springs.
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FEL-PRO Performance – Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit (Part No.2900)

Engine Crankshaft Seal Kit

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$21.49
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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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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Popular 1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products Categories

1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products

You count on your 1981 GMC K3500 to run right. That means taking care of it with regular maintenance, necessary repairs, and the right parts. Advance Auto Parts can help with all of that thanks to our extensive inventory of trusted Performance and Racing Products. With 278 Performance and Racing Products ranging in price from $7.99 to $1,009.99, you’re sure to find everything you need for your 1981 GMC K3500.

Brands matter. If you want to shop a specific Performance and Racing Products brand, we stock 21 different brands like Mr. Gasket, Edelbrock, and K&N. 1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products start as low as $7.99!

One of the best ways to find top quality OEM or aftermarket Performance and Racing Products is by asking professionals. Short of that, you can shop with confidence thanks to our 476 extensive product reviews on 1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products. Some of the top-rated Performance and Racing Products products we carry are Ultra-Seal Intake Manifold Gasket with Silicone Beading with 4.3 stars and Performance Exhaust Gasket Set for Enhanced Sealing and Durability with 4.6 stars.

Did we mention you can order your Performance and Racing Products from our online catalog and have them shipped right to your garage? Or, if you feel like seeing the parts first-hand, search for your nearest Advance Auto Parts location above and pick up in-store when you’re ready. Browse our full Performance and Racing Products inventory for your 1981 GMC K3500 below to get started!

Top-Rated Performance and Racing Products Brands For Your 1981 GMC K3500

Trusted Performance and Racing Products OEM and aftermarket product brands are what Advance Auto Parts specializes in. The brands we work with are sure to keep that 1981 GMC K3500 running right for years to come. In our inventory you’ll find brands like Mr. Gasket, Edelbrock, K&N, and even more.

Popular Flowtech Performance and Racing Products

You’ll find popular Flowtech brand products across Performance Exhaust Products. All are waiting to get your 1981 GMC K3500 back on the road. Some of the top-rated Flowtech products in these categories are:
Real-Seal; Header Gasket
from $85.39
(1)
Real-Seal; Header Gasket
Performance Exhaust Manifold Gaskets

Top-Rated Edelbrock Performance and Racing Products


If Edelbrock are what you’re looking for, our inventory holds plenty. We stock Edelbrock brand Performance and Racing Products for your 1981 GMC K3500, and some of our most reviewed Edelbrock parts include:
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

FAQs for 1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products

What are the most purchased Performance and Racing Products for the 1981 GMC K3500?

Out of 278 Performance and Racing Products for the 1981 GMC K3500, the most popular in our inventory are:
High Performance Transmission Mount for Street & Racing Vehicles
from $41.99
(17)
High Performance Transmission Mount for Street & Racing Vehicles
Performance Engine and Transmission Mounts
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
from $26.99
(20)
High Performance 180 Degree Thermostat for Increased Flow
Performance Engine Coolant Thermostats

What are the top-rated 1981 GMC K3500 Performance and Racing Products?

Top-rated Performance and Racing Products for your 1981 GMC K3500 based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Ultra-Seal Intake Manifold Gasket with Silicone Beading
from $31.99
(18)
Ultra-Seal Intake Manifold Gasket with Silicone Beading
“Can’t go wrong with Mr Gasket”
Performance Exhaust Gasket Set for Enhanced Sealing and Durability
from $20.99
(14)
Performance Exhaust Gasket Set for Enhanced Sealing and Durability
“Put new headers on motor”
High Output Mechanical Fuel Pump - 110 GPH Free Flow
from $144.99
(12)
High Output Mechanical Fuel Pump – 110 GPH Free Flow
“Used it in my 1930 hot rod.”