The 2.8 was pretty puny even in the S-10's, especially the carbureted models. Fuel injection helped the reliability a little, and improved the power somewhat, but a good 250, or even a 230 would probably outperform it.
The 4.3 will have the same width problems around the steering gear as a V-8, as it's just a 350 with a couple of cylinders lopped off. Good engine, pretty good power, but it's a gas guzzler.
Jerry
