Hi Team,

Been lurking for a while on the site and decided to finally step up and join. The information I have read has lead me to go with a LSx upgrade to replace the severely underpowered 4.4L (226 c.in) 180 hp engine in my 81 Firebird. I figured it was about time, as I have 236,000km on the original engine, which still runs good, but I am tired of being left in the dust by a Prius (seriously).

I managed to locate a good used LQ6 and 4L80e from a 08 GMC 2500 for $2,000. Came with everything from the computer to the peddle to the AC compressor, alternator, Power Steering Pump - the works. and it was removed with CARE. Not a hose or wire cut. Very impressed.

My original plan was to keep it stock and do a drop in. Then the Hot Rodder in me started looking at a Cam Swap while it was out and things started to get a little more interesting.

I do have a LS3 intake (bare) that I will swap for the truck intake for clearance, just need injectors and a fuel rail.

So, if I'm going with the Cam Swap, my plans, so far, looks something like this:

LY6 - 6.0 VVT (2008 Sierra HD)
LS3 Intake
VVT3 Cam & Spring Package (Speed Inc SI5 Cam 231/237)
90mm throttle Body
Hooker 1-3/4" LS Engine Swap Headers
Holly LS Oil Pan
Engine Swap Plates
Dirty Dingo Accessory Kit
Pypes Dual Exhaust

For the Trans, I was thinking of only swapping the converter to a 2800 - 3200 stall, buying a new cross member and upgrading the 8.5 to limited slip 3.73.

I know this isn't the most aggressive combination and I could get more HP with an application of more money.

I know there are 100 other things that need to be looked at as well, from fuel system to programming to gauges to cooling.

Looking primarily for good street manners and reliability as I drive this car daily (summer / rain / winter). Planning on doing most of the leg work this year and by next winter, do the swap.

Comments?

 

Having virtually the same camshaft I would opt for 3200 on the converter. By the way I am using a Yank Converter.

 

Still acquiring parts for the build.

Building the same motor with the VVT3 cam.
Purchased a 3,200 Pro Torque billet converter for my combo.

Love to see pictures of the build.

Mike

 

I'll definitely post some photos of the build. Just have the engine on the stand now in stock form.

One follow-up questions is that given this combo, would the stock 42lb injectors be ok or would an upgrade to a 60 lb injector be more appropriate.

As the LS3 intake is bare, I have the opportunity to upsize the injectors as part of the build.

One thing I noticed is there are A LOT of details to work through.... lol.


Doug

 

Do the LQ6 heads have the same intake ports as a LS3?

 

I think he meant LY6 not LQ6.