Ls1 Engine Info
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 1
From: grand prairie texas
Ls1 Engine Info
I usually hang in the C-3 section but over the weekend I bought a one owner immacuiate condition 2001 firebird formula witha LS1 engine that is bad. I dont have it out of the car yet but from what I can see there is a crack in right side of the aluminum block with oil leaking out. I assume it is a rod but I wont know for sure until friday when I get it out. My questions are Can this block be welded? If not can I use the LS1 heads and put them on a less powerful engine maybe an LT1 and have all the acceseries bolt on? I am planning on giving this car to my 20 year old daughter and she probably dont need all that power. What are options? Thanks for the help.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 9,909
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From: Hot Springs AR
Check out www.camaroz28.com, ls1tech.com, ls1howto.com. They've got a lot of f-body LS1 data over there.
LS-1 and LT-1 engines aren't that similar; just go back with an LS-1, maybe a short block.
Also, get ready to really appreciate working in any other engine bay in your life; the 4th gen f-bodies are really packed in there.
HTH, and have a good one,
Mike
LS-1 and LT-1 engines aren't that similar; just go back with an LS-1, maybe a short block.
Also, get ready to really appreciate working in any other engine bay in your life; the 4th gen f-bodies are really packed in there.
HTH, and have a good one,
Mike
Pro
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 645
Likes: 12
From: Hermosa Beach CA
The LT1 uses reverse flow heads and waterpump. LS1 components are not compatible.
That should answer the 'can it be done' side of the question.
To answer whether or not it should be done, the answer is still - No. The LS1 is, without a doubt, much better than the LT1 both from a performance and longevity standpoint. It's also much more efficient on fuel. So, while you have the provisions for an LS1, the wise decision is to stick with the LS1 - you'd be downgrading to an LT1.
If you're worried about it being too much power for your daughter, I don't think you should've purchased a V8 Formula. Consider a 4 cylinder or V6 car.
It isn't worth the hassle trying to weld an aluminum block. The integrity has already been compromised. Find someone selling a bare block and salvage what parts you can from the old engine. I've seen used LS1 blocks go for $3-400.
That should answer the 'can it be done' side of the question.
To answer whether or not it should be done, the answer is still - No. The LS1 is, without a doubt, much better than the LT1 both from a performance and longevity standpoint. It's also much more efficient on fuel. So, while you have the provisions for an LS1, the wise decision is to stick with the LS1 - you'd be downgrading to an LT1.
If you're worried about it being too much power for your daughter, I don't think you should've purchased a V8 Formula. Consider a 4 cylinder or V6 car.
It isn't worth the hassle trying to weld an aluminum block. The integrity has already been compromised. Find someone selling a bare block and salvage what parts you can from the old engine. I've seen used LS1 blocks go for $3-400.
Banned Scam/Spammer
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 2,911
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From: Simi Valley CA
Once you weld an alum. block, every surface has to be re-machined and line bored. Then IF it is trued up, you might get away with it. Chances are slim to none. And 'slim' is only if you have the most experienced welder on the planet.
It's only worth trying on blocks like the ZR1 where they just aren't that plentiful.
It's only worth trying on blocks like the ZR1 where they just aren't that plentiful.
