V6 to V8 LS swap questions

[Scotts Chaos]

I have a 99 firebird that has the V6. I currently have a 2004 LM4 installed in it. I am using the factory V6 k-member and purchased the Hooker 71221001HKR brackets. These brackets are supposed to allow you to use the V6 k-member. The documentation reads "Fully compatible with Hooker 4th-gen mid-length headers and dual exhaust system recently developed for this vehicle platform (requires installation of LS1 steering rack)". I am using the factory exhaust manifolds from the donor vehicle. (2004 Trailblazer) My issue is the steering gear appears to be contacting the manifold. Also, the alternator is hitting the power steering plumbing on the rack. Question. Is the V6 Steering rack and gear that much different from the V8? I've heard they are the same, and I've heard they are different. Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks.

[ssms5411]

93-97 uses a rag joint if I remember then _98-02 uses a coupler and you can use them _v6 or v8. The rack and pinion might differ from years but they work v8 or v6. In my 1996 3.8 Camaro I’m using a 2002 SS steering column and steering coupler and FE 2 rack and pinion. Been like that for 15 years.

[FirebirdGT]

You need the rack out of a 98-02 LS1 - 99 V6 used the same rack as the 93-97 LT1 cars - and the solid coupler.

All 3 PS lines are also different - you need to use all LS1 parts.

BUT - the photos I have seen has the LM4 alternator up top - whereas the F-body LS1 has the alternator down low under the PS pump??

[Scotts Chaos]

93-97 uses a rag joint if I remember then _98-02 uses a coupler and you can use them _v6 or v8. The rack and pinion might differ from years but they work v8 or v6. In my 1996 3.8 Camaro I’m using a 2002 SS steering column and steering coupler and FE 2 rack and pinion. Been like that for 15 years.

So if I'm understanding you correctly. I can Purchase an LS1 steering rack FE2 and use the steering gear (coupler) from my 99 Firebird?

[Scotts Chaos]

You need the rack out of a 98-02 LS1 - 99 V6 used the same rack as the 93-97 LT1 cars - and the solid coupler.

All 3 PS lines are also different - you need to use all LS1 parts.

BUT - the photos I have seen has the LM4 alternator up top - whereas the F-body LS1 has the alternator down low under the PS pump??

I have relocated the alternator using a LS1 alternator relocation bracket. The power steering pump will mount right above it.

[ssms5411]

So if I'm understanding you correctly. I can Purchase an LS1 steering rack FE2 and use the steering gear (coupler) from my 99 Firebird?

Depends on if the manifolds are in the way and anything else since you did a engine swap. Is the one on there now from the V6? And does it work?

[FirebirdGT]

So if I'm understanding you correctly. I can Purchase an LS1 steering rack FE2 and use the steering gear (coupler) from my 99 Firebird?

Is it a solid rod or does it have the rag joint?

[ssms5411]

Read this thread on LS1 Tech:


https://ls1tech.com/forums/suspensio...fferences.html

[FirebirdGT]

94 (L32,F41) 26044843 (AC-DELCO #38-9026)
95 (L32,L36,F41) 26044843 (AC-DELCO #36-9026)
96-97 (L36,F41, EXC Y87) 26044843 (AC-DELCO #36-9026)
98-99 (F41, EXC Y87) 26044843 (AC-DELCO #36-9026)

00-02 (F41, EXC Y87) 26077996 (AC-DELCO #36-9212)


94 (LT1,FE2) 26044844 (AC-DELCO #36-9027)
95 (LT1,FE2) 26044844 (AC-DELCO #36-9027)
96-97 (LT1,FE2) 26044844 (AC-DELCO #36-9027)
96-99 (F41,Y87) 26044844 (AC-DELCO #36-9027)

98-99 (FE2,FE4,FE7) 26060047 Camaro

98-99 (FE2,FE4,FE7) 26062311 (AC-DELCO #36-0012)
00-02 (FE2,FE4) 26062311 (replaced by 19330435)
00-02 (FE2,FE4,FE7) 26062311 Camaro
00-02 (F41,Y87) 26062311

F41 V6
FE2, FE4, FE7 V8
Y87 V6 Performance Package

[ssms5411]

Nice info Robert, where do you find the part number on the rack? I wanna see what I put on. Its suppose to be a remanufactured FE2 2002 rack and pinion. Searched should be bottom of the rack and pinion.

[Ragnorrak]

I have a 99 firebird that has the V6. I currently have a 2004 LM4 installed in it. I am using the factory V6 k-member and purchased the Hooker 71221001HKR brackets. These brackets are supposed to allow you to use the V6 k-member. The documentation reads "Fully compatible with Hooker 4th-gen mid-length headers and dual exhaust system recently developed for this vehicle platform (requires installation of LS1 steering rack)". I am using the factory exhaust manifolds from the donor vehicle. (2004 Trailblazer) My issue is the steering gear appears to be contacting the manifold. Also, the alternator is hitting the power steering plumbing on the rack. Question. Is the V6 Steering rack and gear that much different from the V8? I've heard they are the same, and I've heard they are different. Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks.

The V6 and V8 steering racks can have differences, and your Hooker brackets seem designed for the LS1 steering rack. To address the clearance issues with the exhaust manifold and alternator, you may need to either modify the brackets or consider swapping to an LS1 steering rack, as recommended in the documentation. Consulting with a true car expert or mechanic experienced in engine swaps can provide valuable insights for your specific project.

They may be able to provide more specific insights into whether there are any critical differences between the V6 and V8 steering components that could be causing the contact issues you're experiencing.