1978 Trans Am 5.3 swap
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 117
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I bought an adapter to convert my power steering pump to allow it to use a standard double flare hose. Then went to napa and had them make me a new custom hose. Here is an article you can read that I found that might help you. http://www.classictrucks.com/tech/09.../photo_19.html
Teching In
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 49
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I always did like that color. Here is mine I really want to do a ls1/t-56 swap or build a 462 . Were you able to keep the factory gauges and the shaker? I know these are not the best wheels for the car but I'm going to get some touqe thrusts' soon.
Last edited by jetfastformula; Jun 11, 2010 at 01:53 AM.
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 117
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Here is the link to summit racing where I bought mine. It was a little long but you can trim it to length. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/LOK-TC-1000LS148/
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Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 117
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My swap is finally complete! Here is a simple walkaround video of how it turned out. The audio quality sucks but it gives you the basic idea.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sso5p...el_video_title
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sso5p...el_video_title
Nice! My 80 Turbo T/A is also a 24 Medium Blue Metallic. Same wheels too!
Been toying with a LQ4 swap with an LS6 cam.
How did you deal with motor mounts? Any major hurdles one would expect with this swap?
Been toying with a LQ4 swap with an LS6 cam.
How did you deal with motor mounts? Any major hurdles one would expect with this swap?
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 117
Likes: 0
The hardest part of the swap I think was locating the motor on the frame. I used the adapter plates that were supposed to put the engine in the small block location but it didn't work so well. I just bolted the mounts to the engine and set it where I liked it and drilled new holes for the mounts to bolt to. If you try to do this swap don't use the truck accessory brackets they wont work they are too tall. I used the Kwik Performance brackets and had good results.
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 8,032
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i WOULD HOPE THE 5.3L had more power than a stock SB. I had a 07 Monte SS w5.3HO and I was totally suprised how quick that car was.
Teching In
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 49
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WELL I would hope too..BUT i was hoping for a comparision of the two because I have the similar car and was curious how different it felt..