Carb'd LS2 (LS364/440)
 

Hey guys, new member here. I've been lurking for a while, but haven't posted since I only recently became motivated again on my project, a 68 Camaro I've had since college. I've done some of the suspension already and the interior's out of the car and all redone. Paint is next on the agenda, but I've recently been researching the idea of an LSx conversion and new trans (overdrive auto or T56, depending on cost and difficulty of install).

Since I'm a home mechanic, limited in tools and lots of experience with advanced stuff, I don't have much desire to deal with with fuel injection, wiring, computer, new tank, etc. Because of this, I've been most interested in the GM LS364/440 crate engine (PN 17802134) - a carbureted version of the LS2. I've seen very few posts about this engine, and the details aren't as plentiful as the F.I. variants. Obviously, the members on this forum are more tech-savvy and lean towards the pullouts with computers and everything.

Anyway, back to the point. While compiling my list of parts and deciding on what I can do, I've noticed a possible conflict between my chosen engine and options for the ignition. I was originally planning on using the MSD LS1/LS6 ignition controller for ignition duties, but I'm seeing that there may be a problem since this is designed to work with the 24x reluctor wheel common to the gen III engines. The LS2 is a gen IV engine with a 58x reluctor wheel, so I'm wondering if a distributor must be used or if there's another option. I recently saw an episode of overhaulin' where a 68 firebird got the same carb'd LS2 as I'm considering, but I don't remember seeing a distributor, so there must be some other viable option.

Tech gurus, please lemme know what you think about the ignition issue and/or my plans overall. Thanks- Ron

Use the MSD it Works...

see I have one. I plan on up grading to the New box that you can tune with a laptop or the hand held programer. But the BASIC MSD LS1/LS6 controller works.

http://www.imagesup.com/usr/112/IMG_4938.JPG

holley505, correct me if I'm wrong, but don't you have an LS1 with the 24x reluctor wheel? My concern is that the MSD or Edelbrock ignition controller only works with that setup... not the LS2 I'm interested in, which has a 58x reluctor wheel.

you can get a distributor setup from GMPP

I was worried the distributor would be my only option. Bummer - the idea of the MSD controller and the preset "pills" for timing curves sounded great. Oh well, back to the drawing board. Guess GM doesn't really want to sell too many of these carb'd LS2s since they don't have a better ignition option available yet. So now what... LS1, LS6?

I would not panic yet. The 60-2 reluctor pattern is so plentiful that I am sure MSD either already has or will have an update. You can also swap the reluctor wheel on your crank to the 24X version I believe. Not terribly expensive but would require removing the crankshaft to fit the new one on. If you pin the balancer you can run a conventional MSD style 4x crank trigger. This may mess up your serpentine pulley alignment but may open the door for more ignition options. Wegner offers a complete swap kit for a front mount distributor and single coil ignition system - pricey but very nicely made. Keep checking things out, you have options.

I am running the 60-2 version of the LS2 in my carbed LS2 from Wegner Motorsports. They have a non distributor ignition they use from Pantera. http://wegnerautomotive.com/wegnerautomotive/index.htm

Give them a call, although most of the guys are probably headed for SEMA.

Hey 69lt1, thanks for the information. I checked their site out and sent an email to get more details.

How do you like your setup? Any pictures?

http://www.w2wpowertrain.com/pc-78-8...l-402-ls2.aspx

Don't know if it's out of your budget but it is a smoking deal!

Nate

Here are some photos. Runs really strong, but I have not really gotten on it yet - trying to break the clutch in a little before I really hammer it.

Here's one in the car.

Jeff,

Who makes that accesory drive system?

Andrew

Wegner Motorsports, engine builder for several Busch and Craftsman Truck Series teams as well as the engine builder for John Parsons' II Much. http://www.iimuchfabrication.com/

Give Dan (General Manager) a call, he will fix you up with everything you need. Everything is CNC'd in house.
http://wegnerautomotive.com/wegnerautomotive/index.htm

MSD just came out with the new controller, 6LS-2, part number 6012 to support the LS2 58x Reluctor and cam sensor :) .

It is Listed in this new for 2007 catalog Page 8.

Holy crap! :eek2: Definitely a sweet engine, but $10,999 is a little steep for my budget. I wonder if they take food stamps...

Just checked the site... definitely some good news for everyone looking to install one of these LS2 carb engines. Surprisingly, this product came out a lot sooner than I thought. Guess the pressure for SEMA does it every time!

Thanks for everyone's input - Ron

69,

Where did you get the headers from?

Thanks.

Hooker coated longtubes from Jeg's, I believe.

theres an article in the new CHP with a carbed ls2