coptzer

iTrader: (2)

So I am finally doing the LSx swap. I am just trying to weigh my options. Fbody motor/trans or truck motor and piece meal it. I found some really good buys on low mileage truck motors, but I know the cost of all the extras adds up fast. I have a friend of a friend who is selling a whole 2002 pullout LS1/T56 for around $3500, maybe less, with under 100k miles on it. I know it is easier to start out with all fbody stuff and I am pretty sure I know what the replies will be, but I am trying to get the best set up I can for the money. I am thinking I might have quite a bit of money into getting a truck motor to equal out to the 2002 LS1 motor, by the time I buy all the needed swap parts, ie wiring, oil pan, intake, TB, etc. Plus with the combo, I would end up with the 6 speed transmission which I was planning on doing later down the road.

What do you guys think.

Iroc'nthe87

iTrader: (5)

I would opt for the drop-out your buddy has..

1ADan

iTrader: (4)

having everything ready to go is a heck of a thing to pass up. the little things do add up if you're starting with a truck motor. I would have said you could probably piece something more powerful together for same or less money, but those t56's seem to command a pretty good price...

coptzer

iTrader: (2)

Thanks guys! I think this is a pretty good price...right? I have seen t56 prices for $1300- $1600, easily. I don't really need the tranny, because I have a 4l60e already, so the t56 transmission isn't a necessity, but who doesn't want a standard.

I mean unless I go 6.0, for like 1000 - 1500 dollars, plus conversion pieces, this would be better than a 5.3. Plus the 2002 already has the LS6 intake. I was going to opt for a L33, but those are pricey as well.
decisions, decisions!!! I guess I just need the extra little nudge....haha.

Iroc'nthe87

iTrader: (5)

Buy the ls1

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

Get the LS1 dropout, AND the 6.0. Transfer the stuff you need from the LS1 to the 6.0. Sell the LS1 long block & T56.

coptzer

iTrader: (2)

Yeah, I thought of that. I would like to stay NA and would love to have the 6.0. The sale might have fallen through on the combo, so maybe I will just piece it together and go bigger on the motor. I have an auto trans to use already. I'm waiting to see what the deal is on this motor combo.

Most of the pullouts I have seen that are just motors, are going for 3 - 5k. Seems as though I could do better than that buying a 6.0 and accessories. Seems as though I can buy a fairly low mileage 6.0 for around a grand in my area, with no shipping charge. Will the wiring and computer work form a truck motor. I thought I read that the harnesses might be a little different with some connectors.

coptzer

iTrader: (2)

Well, the motor got sold out from under me, so I guess the search continues.....might be leaning now towards the 6.0 LQ9 engine.

88 350 tpi formula

iTrader: (9)

this happens alot.. do your research now then find a engine. deals are out there but you need to know what your looking for and jump on the deals when your well educated on what you want and need and are looking at.

all too often people drag their feet on a really good deal or jump in with no idea and get screwed


also do your research on these "low mile " ls1s I see all the time.. when you do the math majority will not have low miles.

1ADan

iTrader: (4)

well, looks like its time to do an ls3 headed lq9 setup!

coptzer

iTrader: (2)

Yeah that's what I am working on now. I don't trust too many of the low mileage stuff either. Probably just going to find a good deal at a salvage yard on a documented lowish mileage engine. Got my eye on a sweet little LQ9! LS1's are so overpriced, unless I could find a whole car. I am quite lucky as my brother is very experienced in LS motors with is 4th gen car.

1ADan, I like the way you think!

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

1ADan

iTrader: (4)

if you get the harness with the engine, everything should work as it sits. however, if you're changing some parts around, you may have to make a few modifications (above and beyond the necessary mods needed to get it in the car to start with). you'll have to figure out if you're going drive by wire or cable (will affect computer used and a couple connectors). injectors can vary depending on the intake, along with map. i also opted to use the 98 TA coolant sensor, but thats optional