Heading to the junkyard this weekend in search of a l33, lq4, ls1, or lt1, I'm beginning to gather parts for a v8 swap in my 89 gtus. What should I look for in the junkyard?(certain specific vehicles that have the required engines/trans) Any insight here would be appreciated. I plan on puling a motor and doing a rebuild on it over the winter, then gathering the other components needed.

 

I've been looking into this as well in case my vert doesn't run or burns far too much oil. The LS1 from a Firebird or Camaro seems to be the best swap option as far as ease of fitment and reliability. Hope that helps.

 

Thanks for the input. I just bought a 5.7 vortec (gen 1 small block) for a great deal, and am considering it for a swap. At the same time, with the money that will be going into this swap I may just go big and find an ls1 for some extra $$.

 

Your best bet is going to be finding an entire LS1 and T56 pullout. Starting with a truck engine seems cheaper from the get go, but you will be nickel and dimed into the same cost as having started with the pullout anyway.

If you really want to get a truck engine get a LM4 or an L33, the L33 being a preference(better heads and compression). They are both aluminum block 5.3 engines. I recently spent the money to swap my iron block out for an aluminum one and I will say there is a large difference in how the car drives.

 

Also keep your eyes out for craigslist. There are plenty of times i see 98-02 camaros for a great price.

 

Thanks for the input. I'll probably just fix the rod knock on the 350 I bought, clean it up and put a fresh coat of paint on it, and try to make some money on it. It sounds like it wouldn't be worth putting in the fc