I am getting ready to let go of my 02' coupe here in the next few months & am planning to buy an 80'-82' in which was what I previously had before for 13 years...
With that said, I am spoiled by my power in the 02'. My question is, what would it take to get an LS1 installed into an 80'-82'? Is it possible in the 80' since it does not have a computer or would I have to buy an 81' or 82' for the LS1 to work? Will the LS1 work with the on board computer systems of the 81' & 82'? Would wiring be an issue? I am confused & know nothing about this so I appreciate any input....

Lot's of questions & I hope some of you guys can give me some much needed answers...Thanks so much!!

 

search LS1 for the tech forum only.... u should be satisfied, its been done MANY times...

 

I'll search some more then...thank you!

 

The 80 and 81 computers are dinosaurs compared to the newer computers. They don't have enough speed or computing ability to run the fans of the newer cars. You just need to get the computer and wiring from the LS1 and adapt it in. Many aftermarket companies are doing this for you.

 

ls1tech.com has lots of info as well.... I'll be starting in on a couple conversions after new years...

Mitchell...

 

Awesome! Great info...Thanks for the quick replies as well...

 

There are a few in progress right now. It's not that big of deal if you go some skills. Vettedan sells the motor mounts, Speartech can make you a wiring harness, and the rest is just small details.

The system is a four wire hook up; power, ground, fuel relay, and ignition.

Autos are the easiest swap and T-56's require installation of the hyd. clutch. None of it is overwelming, just money and time. LS1tech is the best place to go for conversion. There are some wild rides like mini coopers and fox bodies with LS1's. Even a few LS7 swap.

BTW - Your going to like LS1 in a C-3, expecially when you pull away from a C-5 at the track.

 

can the LS1 be stroked?

what's the max?

 

The largest I've seen is a 454 CI ls1. That was like a $30,000 motor though.

382ci used to be common, now 402ci is a fad.

 

Turtle, come to the other side. A carbed stroker LS1 in your car would make a great autocross machine.

 

I can attest to the time and money statements.

There are an increasing number of LS1 conversions into C3's but when you look at them in detail almost everyone does something different or uses different components so there isn't a standard blueprint (yet) for doing a conversion.

When you look for an engine it's much easier to buy one that includes the accessories (alternator, etc.), the wiring harness and the computer. The harness is so self-contained that you really only have to hook up a few wires and the plumbing. You do have to add an electric fuel pump and many of your old guages won't work. I could be wrong but I believe the better choice of LS1 for a C3 is one from an F-Body rather than a C5. The accessories are positioned differently and I think the oil pans are different.

Some 2001 and all later LS1 engines used the LS6 block and I think 2001 and up used the LS6 intake. The 2001 Camaro engine that I have has the LS6 block. Again I could be wrong but I think you can go to 427 c.i. in the LS6 block.

I'm in the process of grunting ahead with a LS1/T56 conversion. Got a bit sidetracked when I discovered that the frame was shot so we're rebuilding the drivetrain "while we're at it". I'll be posting some pics soon (I hope) of the trial fitting of the engine/trans. There are a few of us doing the transplants into bare frames right now so you can get an idea of the work involved.



Rick B.

 

As far as going much bigger than 346 in an LS1 the issue is the block. Since they are sleeved aluminum blocks, you can't bore them out. You can make a relatively cheap 402 with an LS2 block and you can go to 427 if you use the C5r or LS7 block. There are many new versions coming soon such as the L92 which is 6.6L and LS9 which is a supercharged L92.

Your'e other option is to have the stock block re-sleeved which is pricey to say the least.

 

Here's an option, a bit expensive!!!
It might still be cheaper than building your own.


http://www.jegs.com/webapp/wcs/store...29419_-1_10763

Dan
Vetteworks

 

I absolutley love the ls1 motor,im so glad i switched

 

I am seriously planning (means saving a ton of monies) to have one of these awesome LS7 engines in my car by this time next year. I am hoping that with a little luck and somebody here in Florida parting out a slightly used Z06 LS7 at a reasonable price with all the wiring harnesses, accessories, etc. Then I would definitely have to seriously consider re-naming my car something to the effect of 69 Z06. Everything else on my car is done (suspension, interior, 6 speed tranny, Vintage Air AC system, etc.) so I have saved the best mod for last being the engine transplant.