Need Tips for My 1st Gen S10 Drag Truck Build

Racing & Motorsports
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Seeking Advice on My 1st Gen S10 Drag Truck Build

I’ve recently decided to build a drag truck out of my first generation S10, and I could really use some advice from those who have experience with these kinds of projects. Here are a few areas where I feel a little lost:

1. Engine Choices

I’ve heard mixed reviews about the best engine swaps for drag racing with the S10. Should I stick with the original engine or go for something like a small block Chevy? Any suggestions on engine specs?

2. Performance Modifications

What are the essential modifications I need to make to improve the performance of my drag truck? I’d love to hear about suspension upgrades, weight reduction techniques, and any transmission tips.

3. Tires and Wheels

I know selecting the right tires is crucial for drag racing. What tires do you recommend for a first gen S10? Any tips on wheel sizes and offsets?

4. Common Pitfalls

What mistakes should I avoid during my build? I’d rather learn from others’ experiences than make costly errors myself.

I appreciate any insights, recommendations, or resources you can share. Thanks in advance for your help! Looking forward to getting this project rolling with the support of this community!

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Definitely focus on engine tuning first! A good ECU tune can make a huge difference. Don’t forget about headers too, they can help with airflow.

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Hey everyone! I’m starting a 1st Gen S10 drag truck build and would love to hear about the best performance upgrades. What should I prioritize?

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I agree with cassiesmith! After tuning, upgrading the suspension is crucial. You want to have a solid launch, so I’d suggest aftermarket control arms and coilovers.

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Anyone tried adjustable shocks? They can make a big difference on the strip. Just curious if they really help control wheel hop.

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Absolutely, bholland! Adjustable shocks allowed me to dial in my setup just right for drag racing. It really helps reduce wheel hop and maximizes traction.

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For drivetrain, I’ve had great success with swapping in a stronger differential. Anyone else do this? It can really hold up against drag launches.

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That’s a solid idea! What type of differential do you recommend?

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I went with a 12-bolt rear end. It really has held up well for me under pressure. Plus, make sure you have the right gears to match your engine setup!

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Don’t sleep on weight reduction either! Every pound matters when racing. Try removing unnecessary parts or using lighter materials.

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True that! I used to drive a stripped-down version and noticed a big difference off the line!

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Is anyone here running nitrous on their S10? I’m contemplating it but want to hear about experiences and adjustments needed for the setup.

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I’ve dabbled in nitrous with my S10. It’s a lot of fun but don’t forget to beef up the fuel system to handle the extra power. Safety first!

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Thanks for the heads up! I didn’t realize a stronger fuel system is a must. Which upgrades did you make?

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I upgraded to a high-flow fuel pump and larger injectors. That gave me peace of mind when spraying. Completely worth the investment.

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For tires, running sticky drag radials can drastically improve your 60-foot times. Just be careful not to shred them on the street!

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Lol, I’ve done that once. Learned my lesson the hard way! They were gone in no time.

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I’m excited to see more builds! For a 1st Gen S10, ensure your weight distribution is optimal. Shift as much weight as possible towards the rear for better traction during launches.

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Great point, Janice! I’d also recommend using a good set of drag radials. They can change the game for your launch and overall grip!

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Don’t forget about suspension setup! A proper setup can make a huge difference in how your truck hooks. Look into adjustment options for better weight transfer.