[C1] LS conversion
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 1,203
Likes: 147
From: dalton ma
LS conversion
Has anyone assembled a LS to C1 conversion kit ? I'd be interested in making the change but gathering all the parts and doing the engineering required is too much for this older owner.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 2,451
Likes: 315
From: Scottsdale AZ
This not a small project and budget 10k to 15k and 1 year minimum. Everything that touches the power train needs to be changed. Not one single thing will bolt up wire up or plumb up. Plus there are many design and integration decisions to make a long the way.
LS conversions are nifty but unless the car is far away from period (basket case) there are many many options for the gen 1.
LS conversions are nifty but unless the car is far away from period (basket case) there are many many options for the gen 1.
Instructor
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 145
Likes: 20
I've done a number of LS conversions. Admittedly not into a C1 but I've done first gen Camaros etc. John S 1961 is spot on about the down stream effect of having to touch every other system in the drivetrain, and suspension, steering, brakes and electrical systems necessary to complement the upgraded engine.
After doing quite a few LS swaps I've reverted to being a fan of keeping it simple by doing period compatible upgrades. If you do an LS swap and don't do all the other car systems (suspension, brakes, steering etc.) my experience is that you're driving an engine swapped car with a refined/modern drivetrain, and less refined/older and less capable components around all that. Each system of the engine swapped car needs to be in balance. If they're not the car won't drive nicely and that becomes disappointing.
After doing quite a few LS swaps I've reverted to being a fan of keeping it simple by doing period compatible upgrades. If you do an LS swap and don't do all the other car systems (suspension, brakes, steering etc.) my experience is that you're driving an engine swapped car with a refined/modern drivetrain, and less refined/older and less capable components around all that. Each system of the engine swapped car needs to be in balance. If they're not the car won't drive nicely and that becomes disappointing.
Last edited by kiwigt; Sep 14, 2025 at 05:08 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 4,389
Likes: 1,185
From: Lexington,NC,USA
C1 of Year Finalist (track prepared) 2019
Here is a link to an old post related to putting an LS engine in a C1.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-steering.html
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-steering.html
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 123
Likes: 66
I put an LS3 in my 62. New frame, C7 suspension, Dana 44 differential, TKX Trans, DeWitts HD radiator, Battery moved to the rear to make room for the ECU. It’s difficult to get the cold air intake in and get the straight section needed for air flow and you’ll need a professional tuner to get it all to work. A timing light and a vacuum gage is a lot simpler.
In my opinion, putting an LS motor in a stock frame, would be problematic.
In my opinion, putting an LS motor in a stock frame, would be problematic.
