LM7 into '86 C10
The steam vent is nothing to worry about, this is actually the way GM runs the line on the V8 Trailblazers. Tapping into the return line gives it a scavenging effect on the smaller vent line, and it will draw any air out quickly.
Here is my progress for today. Made up the line between the MAP and intake. I will probably end up modifying it again, I may need to tap into it from the TCC vacuum solenoid.

Picked up a new aluminum stock replacement radiator. Still need to find the mounting brackets and fan shroud.

Picked up a new belt and got a reman'd alternator from the junkyard.

Picked up a starter as well, fits nicely with the transmission cover.

I decided to use the 2001 battery cables since they were larger gauge and in better shape. Got them ran to the block and starter.

I accidentally broke the 5.3L oil pressure sensor while removing it. So instead of just tossing it, I turned it down and tapped it to go from the metric thread to 1/8" NPT needed for the stock '86 oil sensors. I need another T or Y adapter, as one of them hits on the firewall due to the engine setback.

And installed.

I also started doing a bit of the wiring, and decided to eliminate the ESC, since I didn't need it anymore.
Harness laid out, conduit removed.

This is the ESC subharness seperated from the main harness.

It's actually completely stand alone, except that one wire ties into the distributors +12V wire, this pink one. Cut that one free, and I've eliminated the ESC system.

And the harness wrapped back up.
I found a set of radiator brackets and got the radiator bolted down. I got the fittings I needed to run both oil sending units and got them installed. I got a better head shield/wire guide for down near the starter, got the wiring harness cleaned up and routed to my liking, as well as got an extension for the temperature sensor wire to reach the front of the head. I pulled the valve covers to clean them and inspect the top end. Everything was exceptionally clean inside the engine.



I also test fitted the carburetor and MSD 6010 kit. I will have to call Edelbrock in the morning to see what I can do about the TV cable system, being on an LS engine. I also tried routing the MSD harness with the box mounted on the intake, but couldn't make it fit any way that made me happy. I've decided to instead try and mount inside the cab behind the glove box, where the factory ESC module was mounted (that I just deleted). The firewall grommet should be a perfect size and location, and it would be better for longevity of the system than mounting the box directly on the engine. I think I will still need to extend the crank sensor wiring, but I think everything else will wire up perfectly.
Other than that, I still need to source a radiator shroud, 2010 Camaro exhaust manifolds, radiator hoses, run a fuel pump, and order an alternator adapter harness. Getting close!

I also modified the ESC mounting bracket for the MSD box and got it bolted up under the dash. I don't really like the fact that it's mounted upside down, but it's the only place I could get it to fit inside and have the harness lay out like I wanted it to. I don't think it will be a problem though, since it's mounted inside and MSD states all the circuitry is sealed anyhow.



Easy access to the timing pills and serial port this way, too.

And a mock up just for the hell of it. Got the majority of the wiring taken care of, I just need extensions for the crank and map sensors. I think I will reuse the air cleaner (I like the stock look, don't judge me!
), but "gut" the emissions junk off of it, and repaint it. I did this on my '88 Chevy before I dropped the Cummins in it, and it looked very clean. I still need the Edelbrock TV correction kit. The radiator hoses are on their way, and should be on the truck later tonight. I'm having trouble locating a fan shroud though. Other than that, I still need to run the fuel line for the engine and figure out where to put the fuel pump. I'm talking to another member about a set of 2010 Camaro manifolds. It's getting close!
I'm at the point now where I'm just waiting on parts to come in. The throttle bracket that comes with the intake doesn't work for me, so I ordered one from Jegs that bolts to the rear of the carb. I will have to move the rear studs inward, so I modified my carb gasket to work with it. I also ordered the TV cable correction kit, an alternator adapter harness, a map sensor extension, and I'm having a custom crank sensor extension made. I noticed a broken off exhaust bolt too (at the rear, no less!), and had to get that out. I don't know how I missed it!
Here's how you make a gasket without punches!


Radiator hoses are on.

The bolt was broken off flush with the head, and I couldn't reach it with an angle drill. I ended up having to build the bolt back up with the welder, and then weld a nut onto that.


Next step is researching where I want to mount my fuel pump. Dual tanks may make this a bit difficult, but we will see.
The Best V8 Stories One Small Block at Time
On the ad:

And some quick test fitting:



The passenger side fits great, but touches the frame in one spot. I'll pull it back out for some minor clearancing. I'll probably pick up some heat wrap for the starter and wires down there. Clears the crossmember excellently.
The driver side fits even better and clears everything, but the crossmember isn't set up for dual exhaust, typical for the 73-87 trucks. I will probably end up with a 4wd tranny crossmember to solve the problem, or get another 2WD crossmember and cut and mirror the passenger side.
Overall, I'm very happy with the fit for the chance I took!
In the meantime, I picked up a Carter fuel pump and a Mr. Gasket adjustable fuel pressure regulator. I cleaned up some of the lines since I've deleted the vapor canister and the fuel return line. I got the pump mounted up underneath the frame right in front of the splitter valve. I got a fitting and flared the fuel line so I can pick up a barb fitting for it soon.


Since I ordered a new throttle bracket that bolts to the back of my carb, I didn't need this bracket that came with the Edelbrock intake. I figured out that it'll bolt to the front passenger side of the intake the same as it does in the normal place, and decided to use it as my regulator bracket. I need to get new mounting screws and spacers tomorrow, but I mocked it up in case anyone would like to use the idea.




It's ~7 psi.
It's not totally finished, I still have to patch a few gaps, but the piece itself is welded in and clears the Camaro headers on both sides. Yes, my welding isn't pretty, it's a cheapie 110v wire feed deal.

This is great practice for the floor pans and rockers I'm going to have to replace in the 1962 Mercedes 190Dc 'Fintail' I'm picking up tomorrow morning. I think a new welder (or more tunable setting dials for this one) will be my next investment.





I'll get some better pictures tomorrow once I get it finished up.




Also, I picked up some 12.9 Allen head bolts to replace the cheesy ones that came with the intake. One broke when installing the regulator bracket.






