kwrench61

iTrader: (1)

Hi fellas. In doing my swap on a 81' G-body Malibu with a 2001 LQ4 6.0 trk eng w/turbo combo, one of the things I have to sort out is of course bolting an older style trans to eng. I was told I might be able to use flexplate since it's flat but I'm using a turbo350,3000stall,and brake. I'd appreciate info pointing me in right direction. I've seen swap flexplate,spacer kits but not sure if that's what I need or I can use some of what I already have. Other question is if I have to use flexplate/spacer swap kit what do I do about starter. Will it engage properly or will something have to be done to move it or is there another starter/bracket for that too. Thanks in advance.

lsxRanger94

A flat flex plate will either have the space already behind it or your LQ4 has the longer crankshaft that doesn't require a spacer. Starter is the same. Both the dished and flat are 168 tooth and sit the same distance away from the back of the engine. If your 6.0 has the crank sticking out the back .400 inch, no spacer required. Just elongate converter mounting holes and bolt it up. If the dowel pins won't slide into the trans (on some), use a cartridge roll or round file to open trans dowel pin holes up a few thousandths.

Your engine could have the spacer already on it to move flex plate out .400.

kwrench61

iTrader: (1)

Funny you should say that because when I disassembled it there was a spacer behind flexplate. I'll have to check and see how thick. Thanks for the info and suggestions.

lsxRanger94

That's the spacer you need to bolt them together. No need to order parts for that. Set flexplate and spacer over converter and mark your holes and elongate them. If trans is out too, test fit them out of the vehicle to see if you have dowel pin issue. IT's a lot easier to do on the floor than under the car.

kwrench61

iTrader: (1)

Yup I agree. Almost have all parts for build. Getting VJ done on heads(3 angle),forged pistons OTW,ordering H beam rods tomorrow. Then just have to get externals like LS! wp,balancer,gaskets. Going with a turbo setup so doing mild compression build. Heads are OE 317 castings and pistons are flat tops with reliefs. Cam is .568/224 @.050,but with 185 ratio comp roller rockers lift will come at about .624 or so. 96mm aluminum intake w/101mm TB and 80lb injectors. Was going with 10bolt rear but got a killer deal on narrowed 9" with 30x15.5x15 weld wheel,mt sportsman,w/ front skinnys,ladder bar with coilovers,frame rails and crossmember for $1500. Pain is gonna be the $3k price tag for welding it in along with roll bar. Car is a "81 G-body Malibu 2dr.