STEP 3: Remove OEM Systems & Install Donor Systems
Ah, the actual swap. The part of the process most folks know well from personal experience, forums, and media outlets of all kinds. You basically need to take out the entire old drivetrain and emissions components (save for anything you’re allowed to keep). And then put all the new components and make sure they are all connected as required.
For our CARB Legal LS3 Roadmaster wagon project, we removed a healthy-but-aging 5.7L TBI V8 engine, 4L60 transmission, radiator, exhaust, fuel lines, and a whole bunch of unnecessary wires.
After cleaning up the engine bay and making sure we had every part we needed to do our swap, we set out to assemble the LS3 E-ROD and 4L65E transmission along with Holley Mid-Mount Accessories, an Earl’s Performance Vapor Guard fuel system, BRP Hotrods motor and transmission mounts, and Dakota Digital gauges.
And then we topped things off with an amazing Magnaflow xMod exhaust!
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.
