Why an alloy GM V8 makes sense for a heavy camper that has to move across a continent.
A six-litre V8 probably isn't the first choice most people would make when building a remote camping and touring vehicle. But I never needed massive power — the original 18R was gutless. This build is about torque, driveability, and honestly, economy.
A stock LS with a 6L80E behind it is surprisingly economical on the highway. As economical as a brick on wheels can be, anyway. I should be able to get decent mileage out of it.
I could have gone an M57 diesel with an 8HP eight-speed automatic, but here's the thing about the LS: being a Commodore motor, they're everywhere. I can walk into any wrecking yard in Australia and find parts for that engine or gearbox. If I'm remote and something breaks, I can get spares shipped fast. I didn't want to be dealing with something that wasn't readily available.
The last piece was the wiring. I can buy a standalone harness, plug it in, connect a few wires, and tune it as-is. I can leave the stock ECU and transmission computer, tune it for the tyres and gear ratios, and just drive. Engine in to wiring done should be a fast process — and that's exactly what I want.