I've been doing a bit of research and I've been looking for a project for my father and I to do. We would like to restore a 67-9 Camaro, and modernize it as well. We would like to replace the engine with a crate LS3 as well as a new 6 speed transmission and the interior as well. (carpets, seats, etc)

We have some experience with car repairs as well as basic bolt on modifications. (headers, intake) Is it possible to do an engine swap as well as adding a newer transmission without reworking the chassis and just replacing the older parts with the new?

Thanks for your time.

 

alot of wireing issues when upgradeing to a fuel injected (computer etc.)type engine as well as fuel system changes. im fairly certian the trans floor tunnel will have to be modified to fit the 6 speed.
if your talking one of the 540 hp or bigger set ups subframe and suspension changes will be needed.

 

Since neither of you are fabricators and I assume not fuel injection experts I suggest you get kits for everything. I am sure there are LSx swap kits and I know there are 6 speed swap kits. There is a great many suspension kits. The kits mostly bolt on (some welding will be needed) they are just going to need a big wallet. My guess would about 30K to update the Engine/trans and get a decent suspension under it. That assume you have a body that does not need any body work. It would be pretty easy to tie up 60K in a car like this.

 

Agreed 100%! Depending on your budget sometimes you are just better off buying a car that's already done unless you want the challenge of building it!!

 

There are companies that sell kits to do the swaps. Check out BRP hot rods and keisler. As others have said, it may be cheaper to get one already finished

 

Aftermarket subframe 3800.00 heigts built too suit your needs, don't attempt to fab yourself thanks Scotty PS wiring kits are available. scottarnoldrestoration.com

 

As far as the first gens go, youd be much better finding an older 350 and doing the bolt-ons to that, not nearly as much work, and there are plenty of engines all over the web right now for decent prices.

 

To see what's involved, you can check out my thread on a very similar build I'm doing.

https://camaroforums.com/forum/67-69-projects-106/new-toy-my-new-toy-1st-gen-33596/

If you have no experience with LS engines and the wiring/fuel/misc stuff you'll need to make work, then I'd at least get an LS swap kit that will get you SOME of these things. The motor swap is actually quite easy, but it's the other support systems that will take a toll on you and a MUCH LARGER toll on your wallet. Things like fuel system (probably including new tank), exhaust, power steering lines, misc. hoses, misc electrical, throttle linkage/electronic throttle control, drive shaft lengthening, etc. I got my engine with auto trans and computer/accessories for about $10K. You can find cheaper at junk yards, but mine was warranteed and new. I went with the BRP hotrods swap kit for the mounts/oil pan/headers. I would not recommend them. I had some issues with my order and customer service. Also, the oil pan they sell is just a Hummer oil pan that is about $100 cheaper directly through GM. But if you want a good project that definitely get attention anywhere I pop the hood, the LS3 is a great way to go. And it will run/start/idle just like a new Corvette.

Derrick

 

I say go for it, it's your project. You can buy stand alone wire harness for LS engine so that it is easy drop in. Check places like Turn Key. It will not be cheap but it will be yours.

 

youre going to want to check out tazs project thread

id recommend the ls1 or ls2, as its a little easier to work with, and the hp is a better range for the 69 frame without needed quite as much structural support

but thats just my .02 cents, it all depends on how much bank you got