LS swap ? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

eagleuh1 · 08-23-2010, 10:28 PM

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.

**Clyde65** · 08-24-2010, 09:42 AM

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

68GMCCustom · 08-24-2010, 10:22 AM

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

juice03 · 08-24-2010, 10:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 68GMCCustom

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

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.

eagleuh1 · 08-24-2010, 01:11 PM

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?

Thanks for all the replies.

juice03 · 08-24-2010, 04:35 PM

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

**Thealien** · 08-24-2010, 05:36 PM

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.

eagleuh1 · 08-24-2010, 06:17 PM

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.

Big Port Jimmy 6 · 08-24-2010, 09:42 PM

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

glock35ipsc · 08-25-2010, 09:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Big Port Jimmy 6

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

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.....

faribran · 08-25-2010, 09:43 AM

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

Big Port Jimmy 6 · 08-25-2010, 09:45 PM

[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.....

[/QUOTE

Remember even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while.

Jay

glock35ipsc · 08-26-2010, 10:11 AM

eagleuh1 · 08-26-2010, 05:31 PM

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

Ratpowerd67 · 08-26-2010, 11:33 PM

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.

Ratpowerd67 · 08-26-2010, 11:55 PM

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

dave69 · 08-27-2010, 02:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 68GMCCustom

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

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

68GMCCustom · 08-27-2010, 09:47 AM

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.

glock35ipsc · 08-27-2010, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 68GMCCustom

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.

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.

dave69 · 08-27-2010, 10:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by juice03

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.

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

68GMCCustom · 08-27-2010, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dave69

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

Which flexplate are you using?

eagleuh1 · 08-27-2010, 05:38 PM

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?

08-24-2010, 09:42 AM	#2
Clyde65 1965 Chevy C10, 2005 4.8L/4l60 Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: DFW Texas Posts: 8,546	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 __________________ Clyde65 Rebuild of Clyde http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...84#post8338184 69 Aristocrat Lo Liner build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...84#post7561684 *support our troops!*

08-24-2010, 10:22 AM	#3
68GMCCustom Truck and auto performance nut Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: McKinney,Texas Posts: 3,848	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 __________________ Kurt - '68 GMC short step - NIB '09 LY6 6.0L crate motor w/mods, NIB '12 crate 4L85e w/billet 3k stall Circle D, 3.73 posi 12 bolt, DynaTech f-swap headers, 3/4 drop, handling mods, etc. - my toy '72 Chevy LWB C-10 Highlander - 350/350 ps/pb/tilt/ac - not original but close '06 Chevy TrailBlazerSS - LS2/4L70e - little black hot rod SUV - my DD '18 Kia Sorento - wife's econo-driver '95 Chevy S10 - reg cab shortbed, LS, 4.3, auto... my '68's powertrain and chassis build -links broken A surprise phase - carb to efi -links broken

08-24-2010, 01:11 PM	#5
eagleuh1 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Russellville, Arkansas Posts: 1,699	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? Thanks for all the replies.

08-24-2010, 04:35 PM	#6
juice03 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Leduc, Alberta Posts: 35	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 __________________ Mike 1969 Chevy C/10 shortbox, built 396 with factory a/c, 700R4 with eaton posi trac and 3.43's 1968 Chevy C/30 project, in progress. 1967 GMC 1/2t longbox 1935 Chevy Master Coach Prostreet 1936 Chevy Master Coach 1952 Chevy Coupe 1950 Pontiac Cheiftan

08-24-2010, 05:36 PM	#7
Thealien Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Pine Ridge Florida Posts: 4,135	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. __________________ Click on my Not really a build thread, yet NOT SO RUST FREE RUST FREE BLAZER LS ENGINE SWAP INFORMATION THREAD BOLT RESTORATIONS 4l60 to an NP205

08-23-2010, 10:28 PM	#1
eagleuh1 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Russellville, Arkansas Posts: 1,699	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.

08-24-2010, 06:17 PM	#8
eagleuh1 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Russellville, Arkansas Posts: 1,699	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.

08-24-2010, 09:42 PM	#9
Big Port Jimmy 6 Addicted to Rust Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Abbeville SC Posts: 1,030	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 __________________ Current trucks: (48 GMC100 320 inliner) Gone (48 Suburban in pieces) Sold 87 GMC CCSB 5.3 4l60E Daily Driver ECTA National record holder XO/PP We never really grow up, we just learn how to act in public.

08-25-2010, 09:43 AM	#11
faribran Registered User Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: AL Posts: 1,828	Re: LS swap ? Bob, i like the way you think...... let us know what you come up with........ will be listening __________________ "

08-25-2010, 09:45 PM	#12
Big Port Jimmy 6 Addicted to Rust Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Abbeville SC Posts: 1,030	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..... [/QUOTE Remember even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while. Jay __________________ Current trucks: (48 GMC100 320 inliner) Gone (48 Suburban in pieces) Sold 87 GMC CCSB 5.3 4l60E Daily Driver ECTA National record holder XO/PP We never really grow up, we just learn how to act in public.

08-26-2010, 10:11 AM	#13
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,684	Re: LS swap ? __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE

08-26-2010, 05:31 PM	#14
eagleuh1 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Russellville, Arkansas Posts: 1,699	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.

08-26-2010, 11:33 PM	#15
Ratpowerd67 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Trenton ,Texas Posts: 328	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.

08-26-2010, 11:55 PM	#16
Ratpowerd67 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Trenton ,Texas Posts: 328	Re: LS swap ? i know that did not help your question but i thoght i would throw ideas out there.

08-27-2010, 09:47 AM	#18
68GMCCustom Truck and auto performance nut Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: McKinney,Texas Posts: 3,848	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. __________________ Kurt - '68 GMC short step - NIB '09 LY6 6.0L crate motor w/mods, NIB '12 crate 4L85e w/billet 3k stall Circle D, 3.73 posi 12 bolt, DynaTech f-swap headers, 3/4 drop, handling mods, etc. - my toy '72 Chevy LWB C-10 Highlander - 350/350 ps/pb/tilt/ac - not original but close '06 Chevy TrailBlazerSS - LS2/4L70e - little black hot rod SUV - my DD '18 Kia Sorento - wife's econo-driver '95 Chevy S10 - reg cab shortbed, LS, 4.3, auto... my '68's powertrain and chassis build -links broken A surprise phase - carb to efi -links broken



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08-27-2010, 05:38 PM	#22
eagleuh1 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Russellville, Arkansas Posts: 1,699	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?

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