ls swap

[Chevyc10572]

I plan on do a ls swap on my 89 gmc and I want to know if any of you guys have done it and have any tips.

[rickpilgrim]

We do a lot of retro and forward swaps in our shop and while some have asked about it no one has gone thru with it so no first hand experience here so far. Have done a lot of research though and know this.
First and foremost it will be easier to have a complete LS donor vehicle for your swap, preferably a truck/suv. That way you will have the complete power train to use, as there are differences in crankshaft length, accessory brackets, oil pan and a lot of other little things you will need.
As LS engine go the earlier ones with 4L60E and 4L80E require less fab work in the 88-98 trucks as once you set your trans in place it becomes easy to place your engine. Also the 96 up trucks have the ECM bracket that works ok with the 99-2005 ECM and wireing which helps.
You still need motor mount adapters and adjustable ones are best. Try to keep the adapter usage to a minimum to save on overall length. GM had mules running around to test the LS so it's not hard to do. Set your budget $2000 over the cost of your running donor vehicle at the minimum and that should get you a stock LS powered truck.
No one in my shop has done a LS swap due to cost, ride in my 434 BBC 98 truck or cost.
Hope this helps you out or inspires someone with experience

[Angryman117]

I just put a 2004 5.3 about 5-6 months ago, converted it to DBC and run an NV4500 behind it. It was not all that hard. The wiring is what took me the longest. I built my own motor mounts, but will update to dirty dingo ones. The ones I built make the motor sit higher than I want. There is a ton to do, but sooooo much better! I noticed the difference right away.

[Chevyc10572]

Will my stock drive shaft work

[BigBlocksRule]

Save yourself a lot of time, money and trouble. Buy the book "GM LS-Series Engines: The Complete Swap Manual". Joseph used to work at Texas Speed and is a genius when it comes to swaps.
Why try to learn it all yourself by trial and error when somebody has already overcome all the problems and lays it all out for you?

[Angryman117]

Yes your stock driveshaft will work, you will need adjustable motor mounts. The book mentioned above does have some good info in it. Also check out the LS Swap section under engine and drivetrain, there is a ton of good info there as well.

[PT'S 70 CST]

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