silver86

Just curious if this is a possibility, in theory using an LS 364. I noticed in the GMPP catalog that you can purchase an LS front distributor drive cover that would allow for a front mount distributor, unless I'm interpreting that wrong. So I got to thinking (wondering) if an LS engine could be dropped into a batch fired TPI car utilizing an LS 4-barrel manifold with FI bosses and wired to use the stock electronics. The firing order could be matched by re-wiring the HEI distributor (if it would mechanically fit), and the batch fired injectors are not firing-order specific.

Slalom4me

The cover looks as though it places the distributor in an upright
position ahead of the block. The distributor drive adapter appears to
bolt to the front of the camshaft. It isn't clear what purpose the
offset journal between the gear and the rear section of the adapter
serves, someone with more knowledge about the LSx series may be
able to comment.

p/n #88958679 - Engine Front Cover - LS Front Distributor Drive Cover:

Courtesy: GMPerformanceParts


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silver86

So I guess I was reading it right. This might be interesting....The LS 376 packs 515hp.

mechguy79

If you do this keep us posted. I will be watching intently!

Slalom4me

The purpose of such a journal on a Gen I would be to act as the cam
to drive the lever arm of the fuel pump. However, I do not see
anything that looks like a provision for a fuel pump mounting boss on
the side of the new cover casting. Maybe the material on top to the
left (p-side) is intended for mounting a pump above the cover?

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Demonic85

It would be a lot easier to just use LS parts.

drmrman

Would also be a lot more expensive.

silver86

I just shot an email over to GMPP to clear a better definition for the application of this part. I'll keep you posted on what they say.

There appears to be a new ignition box offered by GMPP if you have to use the crank trigger system (MSD based apparently from the picture). I'm wondering how difficult that would be to wire into the TPI tach and ecm harnesses if it had to be used.

Demonic85

So this means that you would have a HEI distributor sticking out of the front of the engine or on the front like a Ford???

Dale1990

It might. It would also be nice to be able to keep all of the dash readouts (MPG mainly) working correctly, tho.

Altho, if/when I do the swap I would likely go w/ the LS1 electronics. I can see benefits to the more modern ECM.

hexane

I posted a thread a long time ago about doing this. I would say that it would be best to either go carbed or swap over to the LSx PCM.