Engine Swap for a V8

[Justin Kirkham]

First, of all, I would like to say that my 2000 3.8 firebird has only 14,000 miles on it, but I was just checking to see if the deal that I am getting is a good one. A friend of mine was rearended, but the engine is in perfect condition. It has 50 miles on it, (he was driving from the lot when he got hit), and he offered me the engine. 5.7L LS1 from a 1996 trans-am for $2600. Now, I am fairly new to car tuning, so can someone tell the following three things:

1. Is this a good deal? ( I can probably get him to about 2250.)

2. What is the difference between an LS1 and an LT1, and what is better?

3. Since it is from a '96, and I have a 2000.. how much work will be needed to change it over and all that?

The deal will only last for about a month, so I am very very appreciative for any input. Thanks!

[wolf]

umm 96 t/a? those have lt1's not ls1
your gitting hosed if yer paying 2600 for an lt1,you can find those cheeper

[zlightning]

IF you get everything you need to make the switch such as radiator, mounts, driveshaft, wiring harness, computer, transmission then 2600 isn't too bad. The LT1 is better for low end power but the LS1 has much better top end. The LT1 shouldn't be hard to fit into your engine bay at all.

[94CaliCamaro]

LS1 came on the 98+ if I remember correctly. Should be an LT1, still a great engine, if you're getting it with all the parts you need to swap, that's a decent deal.

One question though, your car has 14K miles on it, why do you want to swap now? Are you going to sell your 3.8? Just curious, do whatever makes you happy, a V8 is always a great improvement. If all you're getting is the LT1 for $2600 I'd pass if I were you, you really can get one for cheaper, and for that price you can definitely find one with all or most of the parts you will need.

Also remember, $2600, plus how ever much you can get for your 3.8 can probably get you into a TA. Either way glad to hear you're sticking with a Fbody.


Davy Dave [img]graemlins/fluffy.gif[/img]

[ May 20, 2002: Message edited by: 94CaliCamaro ]</p>