LS Swap Parts List: Every Part You NEED for Your First Swap

LS swaps are time-consuming and wallet-draining. But at the end of the day, they’re relatively simple. Here’s a universal LS swap parts list to help get you started on your first swap! (LS3 Roadmaster Wagon Project | Bonus)

LS swaps come in all shapes and sizes and budgets. Some are world-class custom builds, while others throw together hand-me-down parts and junkyard engines. But no matter your skill level or budget, it can be extremely daunting to take that initial step toward actually doing your first swap. If that’s you, welcome to the club. I was you about a year and a half ago. Researching. Dreaming. Collecting parts. About to turn more wrenches than I’d ever turned.

Make sure LS1Tech’s LS3 Roadmaster Wagon Project HERE in our forum
We’re rolling out a large chunk of videos and articles all this week!

Now that I’m on the other side of the process — well, as much as one can call a home-build project car “finished” — I wanted to put together a couple of universal guides to help folks get ready for a first swap.

Please note that you’ll still have to research specific parts for your specific application. And that this will take a lot of time. And that this list doesn’t represent everything you’ll need in terms of tools, accessories, and performance upgrades like suspension and brakes. Fortunately, there are forums like LS1Tech.com where friendly people can help out with tips and offer counsel when things go wrong. Please also note that many of these items are going to seem obvious. But that’s kinda the point.

LS swaps are frustrating at times. And expensive. But they are also relatively simple. Especially when you’re using a Chevrolet Performance Connect & Cruise system.

Universal LS Swap Parts List | Parts We Used 

1. Engine | Parts 1-5 all included with LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system from Guaranty Chevrolet
2. Transmission
3. Engine Computer
4. Transmission Computer (unless you’re using an older style transmission)
5. Wiring Harness
6. LS Swap Oil Pan & Gasket | Holley 302-2 & OEM LS3 gasket
7. LS starter | GM 19418895
8. Engine Accessories & Belt | Holley Premium Mid Mount Accessory Drive System 20-180 BLK
9. Motor Mounts & Transmission Crossmember | BRP Hotrods 91-93 B-Body LS Swap Kit
10. Driveshaft | local shop resized my OEM driveshaft
11. Limited slip differential | Eaton TrueTrac 913A481
12. Fuel system capable of 60 PSI constant | Earl’s Vapor Guard Hose & AN Fittings (Holley)
13. Fuel filter/regulator | AC Delco GF822
14. Accelerator pedal (if drive by wire) | CTS-V style pedal (included with LS3 E-ROD crate motor)
15. Air intake | Chevrolet Performance 19301246
16. Mas Air Flow sensor | Included with LS3 E-ROD crate motor
17. Quality radiator, fan, & cooling system | Champion Cooling 1517 & OEM Impala SS fans
18. Digital gauges or analog gauge adapters | Dakota Digital VHX 1023
19. Headers & cats (if required in your state) | 5th Gen Camaro (included with LS3 E-ROD crate motor)
20. Killer exhaust | Magnaflow xMod mufflers, 2.5″ Universal Builder Kit, flex joints, & Helmholtz chambers

LS3 Roadmaster Wagon Project EPISODES

Part 1
Parts & Project Goals

Part 2
Michelin Tires, American Racing Wheels, Eaton TrueTrac, & Sway Bars

Part 3
Wilwood D52 Disc Brakes

Part 4
Coilovers & Control Arms

Part 5
Goodbye TBI, Hellow Earl’s Vaporguard Fuel System

RacingJunk.com Bonus
Everything You Need to START a Chevy Performance Connect & Cruise System
(LS and LT Engines)

Part 6
Installing an LS3 E-ROD & Holley Accessories in a Roadmaster Wagon!!!

Part 7
This Magnaflow xMod Exhaust Made My LS3-Swapped Wagon Sound INSANE!

Part 8
Dakota Digital: LS Swap Gauges & Wiring Made Easy! (Plus Guaranty Chevy & Chemical Guys!)

Part 9
LS Swaps Are a LOT More Expensive Than You Think!!!

Part 10
10 Tips for Surviving Your First LS Swap

Bonus
Every Part You NEED For Your First LS Swap

PARTNERS

• Guaranty Chevrolet: https://www.occhevy.com/
• Holley: https://www.holley.com/
• Magnaflow: https://www.magnaflow.com/
• Chemical Guys: https://www.chemicalguys.com/
• Dakota Digital: https://www.dakotadigital.com/
• Michelin: https://www.michelin.com/
• Wilwood Brakes: https://www.wilwood.com/
• Eaton: https://www.eaton.com/
• Sony: https://electronics.sony.com/

DISCOUNTS PROVIDED

• Summit Racing: https://www.summitracing.com/
• Muscle Rods aka BRP HotRods: http://www.brphotrods.com/
• Sikky Manufacturing: https://www.sikky.com/
• American Racing Wheels: https://www.americanracing.com/

Michael S. Palmer

Michael S. Palmer began his career assisting and developing content for Academy Award-winning and studio-based film and television producers. He has been a professional writer since 2008, when he joined the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw). As a journalist and Content Editor/Manager, he has covered numerous emerging imaging, theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, and automotive technologies. He currently spends his days creating original content at the Internet Brands Automotive Group for some of the world's largest online automotive communities, including Ford Truck Enthusiasts, CorvetteForum, ClubLexus, AudiWorld, and LS1Tech. He still owns his first car, a 1987 Mercury Cougar; adores driving his Boss 302 Mustang; and recently teamed with Chevrolet Performance, Holley, Magnaflow, Eaton, Wilwood, Michelin, Chemical Guys, Summit Racing to build his first project car. Installing an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system into a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon made his eight-passenger wagon faster than a C5 Corvette to 60mph and 50 state emissions legal. His wife and daughter are very patient.

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