LT1 engine and transmission swap

[jmoto42]

Looking for the pro's and con's of swapping a LT1 engine and transmission from a 97 Z-28 over to my 82 GMC 1/2 ton. What are some of the problems I might run into? The LT1 is complete with the original auto trans, computer and wiring harness.

[eventhorizon66]

Pros: more power, better gas mileage, fewer gotcha's compared to a LSX swap.

Cons: cost, there are always a few gotcha's, opti-spark dizzy.

If you've got a complete engine/trans/ECU/harness, I'd say go for it.

[Captkaos]

can't add anything to that...

[slammedgringo]

Well guys I'll have pics up soon but yea I just made married my new project engine today. Went down to west palm beach and picked up a LT1 Complete engine today with harness,ecm,and serpintien set-up. All except the 4l60E or 4l80 whatever I choose to put it in..... I baught it knowing only one thing I NEED A NEW BLOCK SO WTH lets go big.... can anyone direct me to someone thats done the swap?... I would hate to but the GMPP intake and turn this thing carburarted but that would be my last draw. I would rather keep the performance and MPG of the fuel injection. I mean I do have the whole engine with TPI set-up still on it.. 

[Captkaos]

An LT1 is basically a bolt in using sbc mounts.
Your only gotcha it the waterpump.  This has been discussed a few times and there are members here with LT1's.

There is no way I would swap to a carb..

[jmoto42]

Here's a link I found from a company in Mena, Arkansas that did a swap into an 83' model.  Some pretty good information.


http://www.hotrodlane.cc/PDFFILES/83chevyLT1install.pdf

[Captkaos]

That is Street And Performance.  Their whole company is centered around drivetrain/engine swaps.  Mark knows his stuff.

[slammedgringo]

Jmoto good post, Yea the passenger mount was a problem I was looking at but they answered it. I still hav'nt even put my engine on the stand hopefully this weekend I'll get it on the stand and de-greased and first pics of my swap posted. Did notice opti spark was cracked so will need to get new opti spark and still looking for a 4L60E. Will also need to order my ac delete pully. PICS soon

[jmoto42]

I stripped off all the stock pulley's, power steering pump, exhaust manifolds and wiring harness this past weekend and degreased the motor.  It wasn't too bad just a little grease up front.  Just ordered my new pulley system and a few other parts today.  I've rebuilt a few motors over the years but have never done a newer fuel injected engine.  Parts sure are pricey.

[jmoto42]

Updating the new engine with a new pulley system.

[73SWBBB]

I know its been some time on this thread but hopefully you've made some progress? Im considering the same swap. I have a lead on everything including a transmission for 800 with 81K miles. Any snags?