5 Things That Make An LS Swap Harder Than You Think

Doing an LS swap is great way to add performance to any car. Just because it can be done does not mean it will be easy and here is why.

Sites like LS1Tech exist because the LS1 is such a great motor. The modern small black V8 seems to fit in just about anything from a Porsche 911 to a Nissan 240SX. As we know, swapping an engine means handling a lot of different components. The V8 needs power, coolant, oil, and air to work. Since you are putting the LS is a car it was not meant to be in, you need to find a way to get all this to fit. Of course, just because it will fit doesn’t mean it will bolt right up.

In this video, YouTube channel EatSleepDrive talks about the 5 reasons he found an LS swap is harder than it seems. He put a LS1 and T56 out of a Camaro into his 240SX by himself in his garage. So, he starts of by acknowledging that if he can do it in his garage without ever swapping one before, than anyone can with the right tools. The first point he states is what he calls the snowball effect. We like to call it the, “while you’re in there” effect. This is a common issue with any repair. Once you have the motor before you install it you should refresh everything. All new seals, accessories, gaskets, and hoses really start to add up and this may not be cost you are expecting.

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The next point is also about the unexpected cost of mounting the LS engine. Sure companies sell swap kits, but many are far from complete. New hoses, intake parts, coolant lines, vacuum lines, and exhaust systems may not be part of you swap kit. These are just a few of the surprises in doing an LS swap. Check out the video to find out the rest and let us know what you think in the comments.