differences between f-body and Impala LT1's?
 

Besides the obvious iron heads on the IMpala, are there any other differences.
I seem to remember reading that maybe the Impala head gasket was thinner.

I need ti put a used engine in my car, and there are several in my area from Impala SS's that are in the 60-70k mile range for around $500.
my plan is to get one, swap my aluminum heads and lunati cam into it and go.

cam is diff

Diff accessory bracket...

James be certain it is a 5.7 from a 9c1 or an SS since most try to pass the L99 off as an. LT1........Look on the back shelf under the oil switch it will be stamped 5.7and the block will say 327
Just call me up I will go with you if you want.

Why does it need to be from an Impala or 9C1? I KNOW the answer to that is you are IGNORANT. The 9C1 could get a L99 but the Roadmaster and Fleetwood or even Caprice sedans got the LT1 standard and it was an option on civilian Caprices.

Frankly I would sooner avoid a Impala or 9C1 engine because of more likely abuse. Find a nice wagon, Fleetwood, Roadmaster or civilian Caprice engine, they likely lead an easier life and are the same EXACT thing.

exactly but if you are at this point I hate to say shoot for the corvette one it has a 4 bolt main...

...then don't say it at all. There's no benefit.

well if he has the choice...

By the time the 4-bolt becomes an issue you better be looking at aftermarket caps anyway, pretty much negating the benefit of buying a factory 4-bolt because new caps require a line bore $$$$.

but you can put quite a bit of power to the stock gm bottom as long as you do it smart

agreed, that is what I was the point I was trying to make when I said that by the time you needed 4-bolt you need to be looking at aftermarket caps. Guess I could have been clearer.