Andrew,
I’ve been researching the Terminator X Max over the holidays and I’ve been very impressed with its many features. I now know why you’ve been so suggesting them to new swappers


I hope you get to keep the dog. Really cute pup. I’ve always had black dogs growing up

Best wishes to you and your family.

Jim

 

Thanks Jim.

The pup is settling in nicely and I am eager to get the Terminator X Max installed on the GTO.

Andrew

 

If there was an overarching theme for the latest round of GTO updates, it would have to be defined by the word "refinement." With the Cougar project I have worked on my plumbing and wiring skills, but both of those things require the proper tools for best results.

So I picked up a flaring tool from Earl's. This tool will perform both 37 and 45 degree flares, both for AN and brake lines.





I also picked up the TE Connectivity crimping tool for the terminals that g in the ECU side of the Holley EFI connectors.





More parts to come...

Andrew

 

Another critical piece of the puzzle arrived. This is one of Rick's tanks RestoMod tanks that is designed to use modern fuel pump modules. These are a lower cost alternative to Rick's stainless tanks, but with the same great technology. The tank will be fitted with a 5th Gen Camaro ZL1 pump module, which will provide enough fuel for 750 flywheel horse power, which is way more than I need.

Naturally, a VaporWorx PWM control system will be used to keep the supply of fuel steady, but also not over heat the fuel. Using the ZL1 module will also simplify the plumbing, because there will no longer be a need for an external regulator or fuel filter. On top of that, the ZL1 module comes with a fuel level sensor that can easily be integrated with the Holley EFI system.





I like the gray powder coating on the tank, but I will probably use rattle can bedliner spray for a more stealthy look and protection against rock chips.

Andrew

 

Looks great!

Also gotta give a shout out, I hired Andrew to tune on my LS Turbo build, and the car idles and runs 1000% times better. Can't wait for the roads to clear off and to drive it!

 

Slowly, but surely the parts are trickling in.

The perfect compliment to the Rick's RestoMod tank and the ZL1 Camaro pump module is the PWM controller from VaporWorx. The VaporWorx controller is a closed loop controller that will maintain a steady 58psi at the rails, without the need for an external regulator, and a single feed line from the tank to the engine.



Johnny is also doing great. He has gained 20 pounds in 2 weeks and it getting very comfortable in our house. Maybe a little too comfortable...LOL



Andrew

 

Where does it sense the control pressure Andrew?

 

The PressureWorx and FlowWorx kits come with a fuel pressure sensor you mount back at the tank.

 

Gauge it at the rail and set the controller accordingly?

 

That is exactly the process. The reason that Vaporworx puts their pressure sensor by the pump outlet is so pressure fluctuations can be measured quickly.

Andrew

 

Are you going to get Johnny to help you install those Holley and Hooker Blackheart parts? He looks like he needs a project to turn him into a bona fide shop hound.

 

Great upgrade! I'm doing the exact same setup in my Camaro, so I'll be watching this closely to pick up any of your tips for the install.

 

Looks like it's coming along, see you at LS Fest.

 

I hope I can get everything done in time! There is SO much I have planned.

Andrew

 

Another piece of the puzzle arrived today.



This is the new Tremec TKX transmission from Bowler.





This is obviously the GM version with a 2.87 1st gear and .68 5th gear. This should make for a great combination with my 3.42 rear gears and 27" tall rear tires. The TKX is a forward step from the TKO and Tremec claims that no transmission tunnel modifications are required for GM A-bodies.

I got mine with the 2" offset shifter, which should make it a little easier to work with my existing shifter hump, which is not stock, but was built to work with the Richmond 6 speed transmission that I currently have.

I am hoping the the modern synchronizer design of this transmission will offer crisp gear changes and improved overall performance.

Andrew

 

I’m glad to see someone on LS1tech finally doing a swap(trans). What are your reasons for going this vs. T56 Magnum?

 

Mostly because of fitment into a GM A body. The TKX is supposed to fit without any transmission tunnel modifications.

Andrew

 

i just ordered the 3.27 first tkx on monday, cant wait.
i really wanted a t56 but having to cut the floor out was the selling point for me. after having to buy a new aftermarket TOB the tkx probably cost same/more than a t56mag.
looking forward to hearing how you like it

 

One of the additional benefits should be in the weight department. If the TKX is similar in weight to the TKO, it should be somewhere around 30 lbs. lighter than the T56 variants. Back when the T56's first started showing up and they were being swapped in to replace fragile T5's -- I had a couple of acquaintances who did before/after chassis dyno runs. One behind SBF and one behind a SBC. In both cases, they lost 15-18 rwhp at peak with just the tranny swap - and added about 55 lbs. of static weight. Rotational inertia on the additional and heavier T56 bits takes its toll. And lets face it - with the torque that most LS-variants make in vehicles that are generally in the 3000-4000 lb range, 6 forward speeds simply aren't necessary for torque multiplication. 4 with an overdriven 5th will work just fine. The 6 speeds showed up to help with EPA highway mileage requirements. Can you get the 2.87 first with a .625 5th in the Ford application....asking for a "friend" in case my wife wants to know.

 

That's so nice Andrew! Great update.