Helping my brother install a Darton LS1 motor in his 69' Chevelle. He wants to stick with his built Turbo 400 tranny. What needs to be done to get it bolted up and working? I have heard of guys doing this swap but never paid attention to what it took to do it?

Need some direction!

Thanks

 

You dont use the top bolt, and you will need a TCI Flexplate. Everything should match right up. I would also opt for a set of ARP flywheel/flexplate bolts.
I have only done the swap into my car (1998 Camaro) and I can't telll you what will and will not work going into your brothers car as far as motor mounts. Obviously your aware that the LS1 is tall and narrow compared to a regular SBC. It should be a really cool setup though.
Its an easy hook up for tranny and motor.

 

I thought it was pretty straight forward. As far as fitting it into the car it will be a piece of cake. My 62' Nova Pro Touring car is a real challenge with the LS1/Viper T56 and the twin turbo plumbing...............this thing should be easy!

Is that TCI flexplate something special for this conversion? Or is just a new LS1 flywheel.

Thanks again!

 

You can use the stock flexplate

 

The TCI flexplate is a SFI approved flexplate that has more strength then the stock flexplate. It's well worth the cost, which is relatively inexpensive in the grand scheme of things.

Is he planning on reusing the same converter or are you getting a new one? If you are getting a new converter the pilot length is .375" longer for a TH400. Just a good FYI for you.

 

I totally agree about the aftermarket flywheel! I was just wondering if it was different BECAUSE of the TH400. I would think twice about upgrading those parts.

Basically the TH400 is a bolt in. That's what I thought. I work on a lot of C5's and they are usually sticks.