Fraser Engines & Transmissions · Chevrolet & GMC
8.1L GM Remanufactured Engines
Find your 8.1L GM Vortec 8100 replacement engine with help from Fraser. From a Chevrolet or GMC work truck to an eligible specialty application, start with the correct L18 configuration, a clear engine quote, and support for your installation shop.
Representative product photo · Click to enlarge. Actual configuration and supplied components depend on your quote.
Sales: Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM ET · Online ordering available 24/7.
Fraser Remanufactured 8.1L GM Vortec 8100 Engine
Keep your repair moving with an engine selected for your vehicle. Shopping for an 8.1L long block, a Silverado or Sierra replacement engine, or another L18 application? Fraser will help review the engine details and prepare a quote your installer can use.
Let’s Get Your Replacement Started
- Application matching using your vehicle’s complete VIN
- Engine configuration and supplied-component review
- Current pricing and availability from Sales
- Written warranty details for your quoted engine
- Delivery coordination with your installation shop
- Core return requirements explained before ordering
The Vortec 8100 / L18
An 8.1L GM Replacement Engine for Your Vehicle
The Vortec 8100 is GM’s 8.1L gasoline big-block V8, also known as the 496 and identified by the L18 engine code. When it is time for a replacement, identifying the original engine and reviewing the installation requirements will help you select the appropriate assembly.
Tell Fraser how the vehicle is used, whether it has an engine swap, and which shop will install the replacement. Include the chassis information for a motorhome or converted vehicle.
Start with your VIN
8.1L GM Engine Fitment Guide
Selected versions of the vehicles below used the 8.1L engine. This guide identifies engine-family applications; Fraser must confirm the exact assembly, availability, and eligibility for your vehicle.
| Application Family | Information to Provide |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra HD | Model year, truck series, VIN, and original engine identification |
| Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL 2500 | Confirm the 2500-series vehicle and its original 8.1L equipment |
| Chevrolet Avalanche 2500 | Full VIN, model year, and original engine details |
| Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana | Year, van series, VIN, and engine identification |
| Chevrolet Kodiak / GMC TopKick | Chassis VIN, GVWR, and intended use; confirm product and warranty eligibility |
| Selected Workhorse chassis | Chassis VIN and model, chassis year, GVWR, and conversion details; confirm eligibility |
Application-family reference: ATK / VEGE engine application catalog. Final Fraser assembly fitment requires verification.
Know your engine
8.1L GM Vortec 8100 Engine Identification
| Specification | Original Engine Family |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 8.1 liters / approximately 496 cubic inches |
| Common name | Vortec 8100 |
| GM engine code | L18 |
| Configuration | Gasoline V8 · overhead valves · two valves per cylinder |
| Block and cylinder heads | Cast iron |
| Truck fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection |
Factory design reference: GM Powertrain Vortec 8100 application manual. Specifications describe the engine family, not the supplied-component list for a Fraser assembly.
Match the Original Configuration
L18 assemblies have application and production differences. Give Sales the full VIN and any available casting or component information so the replacement can be matched before shipment.
Review Chassis and Vehicle Use
A pickup, motorhome, and commercial vehicle may need different configurations and order terms. Provide the chassis year and GVWR along with the vehicle’s intended use when requesting a quote.
Plan the installation
What Comes With an 8.1L GM Long Block?
A long block generally centers on the engine block, rotating assembly, cylinder heads, and valvetrain. The final component list determines which parts your installer will transfer, replace, or obtain separately. Fraser will review that list for your quoted assembly.
Review the Engine Assembly
Ask about the block and cylinder heads, internal components, timing system, and oiling components included with the quoted build. Review any application-specific requirements with your installer.
Plan for External Components
Confirm the oil pan, covers, intake, fuel system, sensors, wiring, and accessories. A product photo may show components that are supplied differently for your vehicle.
Choose with the complete repair in mind
Remanufactured vs. Used Chevy 496 Engines
Compare the engine and the installation together. When shopping for a remanufactured 8.1L GM engine, request the build and inspection details, component list, and written warranty. For a used engine, also ask for donor mileage, service history, and available test results.
Compare the Total Cost
Include the engine, freight, core requirements, tax, installation labor, and replacement accessories in your budget. A complete quote makes it easier to compare options.
Give Your Shop the Details
Share the engine quote before scheduling installation. Your shop can identify additional parts and address the original failure’s cause as part of the repair.
Support for the complete order
Warranty, Shipping & Core Returns
Warranty Coverage
Review the written terms for your quoted engine, including the coverage period, mileage allowance, covered parts, labor eligibility, and claim requirements. Ask about available coverage options.
Engine Delivery
Provide your installation shop’s address and unloading capabilities. Sales will confirm freight charges, available delivery services, and the expected shipping schedule.
Core Return
Confirm any core deposit or waiver, return deadline, acceptance conditions, and pickup process. Keep the shipping materials your return instructions require.
Installation Products
Ask about installation kits, appropriate fluids, filters, and the instructions supplied with your engine. Your installer can help identify the products needed for the specific repair.
Ready when you are
How to Order Your 8.1L GM Engine
- Identify your vehicle. Have the full VIN, vehicle year, model, original engine details, and installer information ready.
- Get your engine quote. Call 800-731-3177 and press 1 to review fitment, price, availability, supplied components, and order terms.
- Complete the order form. Enter the requested details and include your Fraser quote or part number.
- Confirm with your specialist. Review the final assembly, selections, delivery address, and total before the order is processed.
Answers before you order
8.1L GM & Chevy 496 Engine FAQs
What is the GM 8.1L engine called?
The GM 8.1L gasoline V8 is commonly called the Vortec 8100 or 496 big-block and is identified by the L18 engine code. Provide the complete VIN and original engine details when requesting a replacement.
Is the 8.1L GM engine a gasoline or diesel engine?
The Vortec 8100 is a gasoline V8. It is a different engine from the Duramax diesel options offered in some Chevrolet and GMC vehicles. Confirm the original engine before requesting a quote.
Will one 8.1L engine fit every Chevrolet or GMC truck?
No. Match the replacement to the original engine, vehicle year, full VIN, and installation requirements. A truck model name or 496 badge alone does not establish interchangeability.
How much does a remanufactured 8.1L GM engine cost?
Call Fraser at 800-731-3177 and press 1 for current pricing and availability. Your quote will identify the exact assembly, supplied components, warranty, freight, core arrangements, and final total.
What comes with an 8.1L GM long block?
A long block generally includes the block, rotating assembly, cylinder heads, and valvetrain. Covers, oil pan, intake, fuel system, sensors, and accessories vary by assembly. Use the component list on your Fraser quote to plan the installation.
Can I order an 8.1L engine for a motorhome or commercial chassis?
Ask Fraser to confirm product and warranty eligibility for the exact chassis and intended use. Provide the chassis VIN, chassis year, GVWR, and original engine information. A motorhome body year can differ from its chassis year.
What warranty comes with my 8.1L engine?
Review the written warranty for your quoted assembly before ordering. Confirm the term, mileage allowance, parts coverage, labor eligibility, installation requirements, and claim procedure with Fraser.
Do I need to return my old engine?
Review the core requirements on your quote. Confirm any deposit or waiver, the return deadline, core acceptance conditions, and pickup arrangements before the original engine is removed.
Where do I place my 8.1L engine order?
Use the Fraser order form linked on this page. Have your VIN, contact information, quote details, and delivery address ready. A Fraser specialist will confirm the order details before processing.
Can Fraser help my installer select the right engine?
Yes. Share your installer’s contact information along with the vehicle VIN and engine details. Sales can help review the quoted assembly, supplied components, delivery arrangements, and questions about the order.
Fraser Engines & Transmissions
Ready for Your 8.1L GM Replacement?
Get the engine details your shop needs and expert help with your order. Start online or speak with a Fraser specialist about your Chevy 496 application.
800-731-3177 · Press 1 for Sales · Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM ET.