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ls swap - motor mount question re: a/c

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Old Aug 10, 2014 | 07:34 AM
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From: chatam nj
Default ls swap - motor mount and oil pan

Have an 80 c3, I'm using either lq9/4l60 or lmg/4l60 combo. Both have a/c. Would like to use the stock a/c unit in the current location.

My question is 2 parts. Can I use the truck a/c unit in stock motor location ( I am not going to modify the vette frame)? if so do I need to use the 1" set back motor mounts or do I need the stock motor mount location?

I've read thru the forum and this thread but didnt answer the a/c question that i have.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/c3-tech-performance/2226401-c3-lsx-conversion-directory.html


Oil pan;
Did anyone use the kit(or can recommend a kit)
http://www.jegs.com/i/GM+Performance/809/19212593/10002/-1?CAWELAID=1710617647&CAGPSPN=pla&gclid= CODcjOvNiMACFc1i7AodBW0ACQ

Would rather buy a new kit vs get a used one. I'm not interested in pulling the motor out (once the install is completed) due to the used oil pan.

Last edited by silvvette; Aug 10, 2014 at 07:44 AM.
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Old Aug 10, 2014 | 08:16 AM
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It's difficult to get the stock compressor location to work because of interference with the mounts. I would recommend a sanden compressor and Holley or Kwik high passenger mount bracket.
FYI, the 1" setback mounts put the motor/trans mating face near stock location.
The muscle car pan is way too deep for vettes. Most that have bought it for full sized cars are unhappy with it. Use a corvette or 98-02 f body pan.

Originally Posted by BluePastU
Have an 80 c3, I'm using either lq9/4l60 or lmg/4l60 combo. Both have a/c. Would like to use the stock a/c unit in the current location.

My question is 2 parts. Can I use the truck a/c unit in stock motor location ( I am not going to modify the vette frame)? if so do I need to use the 1" set back motor mounts or do I need the stock motor mount location?

I've read thru the forum and this thread but didnt answer the a/c question that i have.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/c3-tec...directory.html


Oil pan;
Did anyone use the kit(or can recommend a kit)
http://www.jegs.com/i/GM+Performance...Fc1i7AodBW0ACQ

Would rather buy a new kit vs get a used one. I'm not interested in pulling the motor out (once the install is completed) due to the used oil pan.
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Old Aug 16, 2014 | 08:03 AM
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From: chatam nj
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Thanks for the note.
I'll buy the set back and fine an oil pan that you mentioned.

Thanks.
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Old Aug 16, 2014 | 08:29 AM
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I am using the Corvette pan. You can buy new factory pans as a kit (pan, pickup, windage tray, & gasket) - if that is what you want. Using the LS A/C compressor - I wouldn't.
Most are variable displacement, a few truck ones are fixed displacement, and the stock location is too much trouble. Without all of the "advanced" A/C controls for the LS compressor, you may be in for more than you want. Sounds like you want more "plug and play".
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Old Aug 16, 2014 | 10:27 AM
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The setback plates are great if you're using the original trans (th350/400, Muncie) because they allow use of the existing driveshaft, shifter location, crossmember, etc.
With swaps using other trans, it may be advantageous to use one of the other 2 designs. Do some more research.

Originally Posted by BluePastU
Thanks for the note.
I'll buy the set back and fine an oil pan that you mentioned.

Thanks.
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Old Aug 16, 2014 | 05:47 PM
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From: chatam nj
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This past winter I installed a 700r4 and used a bow tie crossmember. I want to use the same bowtie crossmember with the 4l60e, so should I use the 1"setback?
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Old Aug 16, 2014 | 05:48 PM
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From: chatam nj
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74modified, can you post a link to the oilpan kit?
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Old Aug 16, 2014 | 06:16 PM
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http://paceperformance.com/i-5133402...k-engines.html
http://www.ebay.com/itm/C6-Corvette-...-/120928165362
That was just a quick search.
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Old Aug 16, 2014 | 06:21 PM
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The th350, th400, 700r4, and 4L60e all have different dimensions to the mount, so I'm guessing keeping the engine/trans mounting face in it's original location (1" setback plates) wont help with having to remount the crossmember.
You could use the 700r4 with a cable TB LS motor, keep your crossmember, driveshaft.

Originally Posted by BluePastU
This past winter I installed a 700r4 and used a bow tie crossmember. I want to use the same bowtie crossmember with the 4l60e, so should I use the 1"setback?
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Old Aug 17, 2014 | 01:58 PM
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The issue I ran into is with both upper control arms. You'll have issues with the LS water pump heater hose bibs hitting the passenger side upper control arm. The AC compressor needs to be mounted high on the passenger side, and I mounted the alternator high on the drivers side. I also had issues with the power steering pump pulley as it hit the upper control arm as well. Holley makes the kit to make the transition much easier and is the most cost effective method. Good luck!
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