LS swap ?
 

Has anybody thats done an LS or 4.8, 5.3, 6.0 swap just changed the speedometer out of the stock guage panel, swapping in an electronic such as Autometer or Stewart Warner, and kept the rest of the stock guages? I'm interested in trying this to save some money. Looks like would have to erase the numbers on the plastic lens though. Anybody.? Post pics if possible. Thanks.

Re: LS swap ?
 

you can use a convertor and it will allow you to use your existing speedo, however the converter isnt cheap at all. I cant remember the brand but I know someone on here will chime in, also look at Thealien's write up in the sticky

Re: LS swap ?
 

you can do an LSx swap w/o changing your trans if you want...or go for an older non-computer controlled overdrive like a 700-R4, 4L60 (w/o "e"), or a 200-4r

Re: LS swap ?
 

You can also bolt your TH-350/400 or powerglide to the LSX block but a shim is required. I have done 4 of these swaps with a 5.3 and 6.0 in older vehicles and used the original trans and added the shim GM#12563532 and the bolts for the the shim GM#12563533.
These swaps are great, CHEAP since you can pick up 5.3's and 6.0's for $500-$800 with under 100k on them.

Re: LS swap ?
 

Alright, the question was......I already have the engine and tranny in and running and driveable. 5.3 with 4l60e. That ain't going to change. Guess I should have stated that first. Already looked at TheAliens build, and what a fine detailed build it is, Nice. I'm interested in just saving some money on the guages, since my guages all work as is hooked up the the 5.3, just not the speedo. Not interested in spending the money on the Abbott Xbox converter. Speedo's are a little over$100. Wiring is cheap. Also looking for a matching tach for the center hole. Anybody done this. Speedo and tach changeout only?
http://i894.photobucket.com/albums/a...m/IMG_0564.jpg
http://i894.photobucket.com/albums/a...m/IMG_0565.jpg
Thanks for all the replies.

Re: LS swap ?
 

Sorry man, but at least now you know if you want to use an older trans that the spacer is need. lmao

Re: LS swap ?
 

Nice looking install. Good luck with the speedo. I would think someone creative should be able to add just the speedo and keep all the stock gauges. I would bet that the lighting for the speedo will be much brighter than the other stock gauges. Only thing I don't like about my original dash is the lights are not very bright.

Re: LS swap ?
 

Well, I guess I'm going to have to get creative. Unfortuanetly, that usually ends up being more expensive, for me anyways. LOL. Thanks for all the replies though.

Re: LS swap ?
 

What about getting one of the squarebody electric speedos and converting your face to it.
Search for some pics in the 73-87 section. Jay

Re: LS swap ?
 

Hey, that's not a bad idea. Actually, if a person was to take their time, I bet they could fit all the gauges from a square body cluster behind a 67-72 bezel. Might need to hit up a glass shop for some Lexan to make a new lens, but I bet it could be done.

Hmmm, now you have me thinking. I have a 69 that's going to get a 5.3 soon, and I have many complete 67-72 and 81-87 clusters..... :lol:

Re: LS swap ?
 

Bob,
i like the way you think...... let us know what you come up with........ will be listening

Re: LS swap ?
 

[QUOTE=glock35ipsc;4156555]Hey, that's not a bad idea. Actually, if a person was to take their time, I bet they could fit all the gauges from a square body cluster behind a 67-72 bezel. Might need to hit up a glass shop for some Lexan to make a new lens, but I bet it could be done.

Hmmm, now you have me thinking. I have a 69 that's going to get a 5.3 soon, and I have many complete 67-72 and 81-87 clusters..... :lol:[/QUOTE

Remember even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while. :lol: Jay

Re: LS swap ?
 

:haha:

Re: LS swap ?
 

I'll have to look at that. Thanks. I do have a 96 S10 cluster with TAC, might have to try that also.

Re: LS swap ?
 

i am useing the programable 5" autometer speedo in the factory location and useing the 5" tach where the fuel used to be. for a fuel guage, im useing a 2" autometer and mounted it in the lower holes. im useing a 67 panel and i cut my own holes on the bottom. i fabed up my blinkers, high beam , and my engine check light behind a piece of plexi glass with LEDs from jegs in the 3" center hole that you are refering to...i can take a pic if you want.....hope this helps.

Re: LS swap ?
 

i know that did not help your question but i thoght i would throw ideas out there.

Re: LS swap ?
 

I have been looking for a complete LS or newer TPI engine/tranny found a few but not many hard to find comlpete, where are they for $500-$800? So far have not found any LS1 in Canada. Where should I be searching on internet? I am in Vancouver area I would like get more info from you on the swap can I contact you by phone? Thanks Dave

Re: LS swap ?
 

The car motor/trans combo's are more expensive and you may have to pay more up there. Look for a 4.8, 5.3, or even 6.0 out of a truck or SUV...they make the near the same or more hp. Trans will be a 4L60-e, 4L60eHD, or 4L65e (4L70e if its from a TBSS or VMax truck). I don't think I'd go TPI w/LSx solutions the available.

Re: LS swap ?
 

:agree: The LS engines are today what the small blocks have have been in the past 50-some years.

Search through http://car-part.com/, I saw a ton of engines and trannys in BC.

Re: LS swap ?
 

I would like to talk to you about these motors and if you know of any in Alberta I am in Vancouver. Please let me know. Thanks Dave

Re: LS swap ?
 

Which flexplate are you using?

Re: LS swap ?
 

Yeh, throw in a picture if you can of your panel, Did you have to cut up the metal backer to get the speedo in?