LQ4 Purchase Question

[Chris Coufal]

I just posted this also over on LS1Tech, but I figured I'd also post it here since many of the builds going on here are using an LS based platform for the engine. I figured I can gain insight from you guys firsthand so I don't purchase something I don't need.

I'm looking to use an LQ4/4L80E combo in my build. I've dabbled in the auto scene on and off for the past 25yrs, but always in the naturally aspirated based engines. I'm pretty new to the LS scene and just want to make sure I have everything lined up so that I don't spend the money on something I don't need.....or forget to get a critical part.

What I need to know is this: What do I need immediately to get this combo up and running? From what I gather:

-mounts

-Harness
do I get the stock harness or do I get an aftermarket built one?

-ecm
I believe it needs to be flashed?

-Front accessories
pump, alternator, brackets. I plan on adding AC later so do I need the compressor now? Would it be better/cheaper to leave off the accessories/brackets and just run an aftermarket bracket and with a stock alternator?

What am I missing? What else do I need?

[TypeSL2]

I am sure you have already heard this, but it is definitely words to live by in the LS swap world. Buy a full dropout. You may think you are saving money piecing it together, but in the end you will most likely end up saving more money because of the little odds and ends that nickel and dime you to death. The dropout will come with the harness and computer and all the accessories. Then it is pretty much just mounts and headers and driveshaft and it will almost drop in.

James

[Clyde65]

I agree with TypeSL2, get a drop out or better yet, buy the whole wreck. some guys have actually made money selling the left over parts.

Harness: get a complete one-Howell, Nelson Performace, Speartech, many others.

ECM, if you get an aftermarket harness, most co's will offer the ECM flash.

Mounts? What are you putting this in? I used POL mounts in my 65( perches), there are others too.

Do the stock accessories, AC wont work unless you cut the frame on a 63-66, go with a high mount, Holley has one, several others too.
check these out!!!

LSx FAQ's:

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=456787

Follow and post here...

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/f...play.php?f=206

[TypeSL2]

I have seen people use the low mount ac compressor. They have to pull the top of the frame a little bit for clearance, but there is a company that makes adapter line fittings that bolt into the top of the compressor to allow for the hoses to come out of the front of the engine instead of straight up.

James

[Chris Coufal]

Originally Posted by clyde65

mounts? What are you putting this in? I used pol mounts in my 65( perches),

66 c10

[chevyrestoguy]

I have heard that the compressor style that is used on the LS engines is not compatable with older A/C systems. Is it because of the fittings, or is it a functionality issue? I see guys using Sanden-style compressors on LS retrofits and I always wondered why.

[Clyde65]

A Sanden compressor is the standard with after market AC systems. The older ( 99-2005) LS compressors will work fine with the aftermarket AC systems and your stock one with a new condenser\dryer and such for the 134a.

Also a Sanden is the one used on the high mount setups also.

[Chris Coufal]

Picked up a 6.0 and 4L60E transmission today for my 66 C10. It's being pulled from a 07 Silverado. Pretty excited to get this installed and fire it up!

[Clyde65]

Once you go LSx, you will never go SBC!

Good luck, keep us posted!