First LS swap......need help 68 Chevelle
#1
68 Chevelle build thread...updated, engine installed
Just picked up a LQ9 and need some advice on a cam. It's going to be N/A and have either a 4l60 Or 4l80 behind it. Going with a LS6 intake and would like to get some feedback on what camshafts work best for power and drivability.
Also, would swapping out the 317 heads for 243s be worthwhile?
I'm still trying to learn all the LS stuff after being a Big block Chevy and Sbc guy.
Last edited by 461rat; 11-13-2018 at 04:27 PM. Reason: update
#2
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TR224 is a pretty common off the shelf (ie cheap) cam that is/ was popular. I had one and liked the sound.
I wouldn't mess with 243 when you could get L92 heads, and an LS3 intake is generally cheaper than an ls6 intake since so many people take them off when adding superchargers.
I wouldn't mess with 243 when you could get L92 heads, and an LS3 intake is generally cheaper than an ls6 intake since so many people take them off when adding superchargers.
#4
The amount of work required to fit a particular transmission is directly related to the specific engine brackets and transmission crossmember you use to mount your powertrain. The Hooker 1st-gen F-body eng/trans mounting components enable installation of all covered transmissions without cutting the tunnel, including the 4L80.
#5
The amount of work required to fit a particular transmission is directly related to the specific engine brackets and transmission crossmember you use to mount your powertrain. The Hooker 1st-gen F-body eng/trans mounting components enable installation of all covered transmissions without cutting the tunnel, including the 4L80.
#6
Whether you are on a budget or not, you may not need to swap to rectangular heads. PM one of the more popular cam vendors here if you want a custom spec cam, or grab something popular off the shelf. I like the TSP Torquer V2 myself and it plays nice with your current setup and higher compression.
#7
I just realized that I mistook your application as being a 1st-gen F-body...my apologies. The same installation constraints/ outcome applies to the A- body application as far as transmission fitment is concerned; using the Hooker forward bias engine brackets will allow installation of a 4L80 without cutting the tunnel.
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#9
That is true chuckd, one could use the same typical mounts that guys have been using on this swap for years and arrive at the same non-optimized functional geometry and steering component clearances in most cases. The market has evolved to the point that many guys want to use parts that are designed to fix the major issue associated with this swap, which is achieving suitable tie rod to oil pan clearance and optimized U-joint working angles without cutting the trans tunnel open. That goal is fairly easily accomplished with the legacy GM automatic transmissions, but requires a different game plan when one wants to install a 4L60-4L70, 4L80 or T56 transmission. Hooker offers specific engine brackets to do just that in a bolt-on fashion. They also permit the use of a low-mount A/C compressor, which is a huge bonus to many users.
#10
Don't be afraid to use factory components to make your swap work. Fbody oil pans will clear tie rods and there are pulley solutions for steering box interference. And a low mount AC compressor will fit an abody with out much hassle. Dig around a few build threads and get a feel for you like and level of modification you are comfortable with. Good luck!!
#11
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That said if you guys have mounts that will put a T56 in an A body without cutting it I'd be more than willing to buy them.
#12
I'm sure they could. And not to discredit your useful posts in any way but at some point if you only mention the one brand it starts to become less about the options available and more about advertising. Maybe you guys are site sponsors, I don't know, but if someone is new and might be unaware you work for Holley (and unless I'm missing it there is no indication of that in your sig or posts) then there is sort of a lack of transparency.
That said if you guys have mounts that will put a T56 in an A body without cutting it I'd be more than willing to buy them.
That said if you guys have mounts that will put a T56 in an A body without cutting it I'd be more than willing to buy them.
#13
461 Rat, save yourself a lot of time and headache trying to sort out what components from various manufacturers will work well together and go with the Holley A-Body LS install kit (302-2 oil pan, forward frame mounts, blackheart headers and trans crossmember). I'm in the process of doing a LS1 stroker, 4L80e swap in a Pontiac 69 Custom S Vert. The 4L80e fits with no tunnel mods, I have good drive line angles, I have no tire rod interference and the header fit is excellent. They slide in an out from underneath like butter.
#14
I plan on using the Holley set up to install the engine. What do you reccommend for harnesses? I have the factory LQ9 Escalade harness. I'm comfortable modifying a harness, but not sure if that's the best route with electric fans, pump, and wanting to keep it clean and functional with the relays and fuses
#18
Got deployed, so that set me back a good bit, but getting ready to rip the old engine out, went on the 2018 Power Tour, and now I’m ready to rip it apart! Cam installed, (Tony Mamo spec cam for the AFR heads. )
New front and rear covers and gaskets along with Melling 10295 oil pump and LS2 timing chain
Holley 302-2 oil pan
#19
TECH Senior Member
Hey, we'll be here when you un-deploy, but meanwhile, we appreciate your service to our country! People like you will help us be great again!
#20
Holley 302-2 pan going on
LS9 headgaskets.
Found out my block was not a 2005.... so those ARP headbolts I’ve had for a year wouldn’t work. Ordered up the correct ones for a 2004 and earlier block
Got the banjo fittings in to allow for easier install of the transmission lines. And ordered a Circle D 3600 10 1/4inch stall. Almost time to drop it in