Looking to do an engine swap in my Z since the motor in there isn't the original and is pretty beat. I could rebuild it but I reall like the idea of a more modern engine in an older car. Anyone done this yet and if so any major obsatcles to overcome? Engine mounts, trans fitment, hood clearance, things like that?

 

A direct drop in to install a Vortec 5.3 into a 2nd Gen. Only issue you might have is if the Vortec is electronic fuel injection. Then you'll need a computer, or buy an intake and carburetor to fit the Vortec engine.

 

maybe do an engine worth the hassle, 5.3 vortecs are good but for the cost of swap get better?

 

There is an issue of HotRod that came out over the summer. They used a 5.3 and a twin turbo setup off ebay for like $600. They opened the ring gap ported the heads and swapped the cam. Stock bottom end. They made like 60 dyno pulls and most were north of 1000hp. Why not use the 5.3 and if you pop it, replacements are less than $500.

My brother left his 08' Chevy four door Silverado w/ a 5.3 here while he went to Montana. At over 5000# that thing flat scoots and sounds mean doing it.

 

I love the idea. A guy in my local club used a 6.0 truck engine in his firebird...it was pretty bad. definitely the best bang for your buck in my opinion, and they are easy to upgrade and built to last. very plentiful in junkyards too. think of how many millions of trucks or vans they made with the 5.3 or 6.0. If you do it I think you should keep a car journal for us on here with tons of photos.

 

screw the vortec... go diesel

Camaro 6.5 Diesel Turbo - YouTube

 

Why a diesel? Just to see if it can be done? Higher fuel prices, less HP, stinky tailpipe, and lower MPG?
Easier to use an LS and have more HP, cleaner exhaust, and better MPG. Or maybe he's going to use the Camaro as his tow vehicle!

 

Lol I saw the vid a couple weeks ago and thought it would get a laugh

 

Thanks to all who posted. I'll do the engine swap eventually and i'll take notes and pics which i'll post - as soon as I fix all the rust I just found! Just stated tearing the front end apart to get ready for paint and found a BOAT LOAD of rust that needs reparing. Guess my engine swap money will be going towards a welder and some cut-off wheels. Not suprising and we've all been there before.