I recently aquired a 1987 Camaro from a friend, and am currently working towards repairing it and fixing it up. As it is now, it is
The standard model (not the Iroc z28)
The body is in great shape, no rust.
A 2.8l v6 engine (probably blown, however I want to replace it anyway)
An automatic transmission.
The Iroq Z28 wheels.

I have a friend who is quite experienced in the field of auto mechanics, and has suggested that I get a complete car to get the tranny, engine, and anything else I need out of it.
So I was thinking about going for a manual with the LT1 from any car in that generation that has a bad body, but runs well. Is the LT1 the engine I should be looking for? I want to get at least 320 HP out of an engine.
Any suggestions or help is greatly appreciated
Thanks,
Austin

 

I'm not 100% sure but I dont think any 3rd gens came with LT1s. If you're going for an Iroc clone, youll want to pick up a L98, Tune Port Injected 350. There was a 305 that came in Irocs, I wouldnt reccomend swapping in a 305 though. Or you could just find a carbed 350 and save yourself a lot of hassle. Swapping in an 5.7 TPI is more trouble than its worth.

 

If you really want a big project, then an LT1 and a T-56 will keep you busy for a while, but it'll be a nice result when you're done, too. You'll need a 93- 97(I think) Camaro with a V-8 and manual trans, plus all the parts from a 5 speed that you'll need to convert your car to a manual. I know you'll need the clutch linkage, but I've never done the swap myself, so there's probably somone on here who could give you more details on that. For the LT1, you'll of course need the engine, but you'll also need the wiring harness, the computer, and any emissions equipment that goes along with it. And don't try to reuse any of your old sensors to cut corners, they aren't intercompatible.

 

got a 87 i'm partin out if you need parts

 

I'll have to look into the L98, all of my initial searchs on google to find information have led to a particular model of a british rifle. I'll have to talk to the individual that is helping me with this. I'll probably start working on the interior later this week. He has an LT1, but I don't think he'd be willing to sell it. I need to also visit a few more local junk yards. The problem I'm having is finding the car with everything I need, in okay condition (like a car that doesn't have the hood missing, and the engine all rusted over). I've found an 89 firebird that I need to look into that has either a 305, or a 350 in it, and a manual transmission. Thanks for all of the suggestions. The other problem with LT1s is that they're so rare, and when they're found they're expensive, even with 100,000+ miles on them. Does anyone know how many HP the l98 is?
Thanks for all of the suggestions, I'll have to look into and inquire about.
I also just got off of the phone after calling again about the firebird.
"hello"
"hi do you have any camaros or firebirds from the years of 83-92"
"yes we have an 89 firebird, with either a 305 or 350, it has a stick, and the only thing wrong with it is a fuel pump. I think he's asking $1250 for it."
"who's asking 1250?"
"we are"
"can you find out whether it's a 305 or a 350?"
*irritated* "yeah, I suppose I could send someone out to look, could you call around 9 tomorrow morning?"
"sure"
Now how ridiculous is that? why couldn't he have had someone check anytime sooner, and why is it such a big deal? a 305 vs. a 350 is a big deal, but tellling what engine is in it isn't. I think I might head over tomorrow or thursday to look at that
Thanks,
Austin

 

are you going for a 5 speed or a 6 speed? The 5 speed that came in 3rd gen cars arent much to brag about i dont think. I would through too much power at them. However, if your going to be stopping at less than 400 or 450 horse, it should get ya by as long as your somewhat east on it. I have one with about a 330 horse 350 on it, holds up fine as far as i can tell...

But there are kits with transmission mounts and different odds and ends that are for sale if you want to use to t56 6 speed. SHOULD cover most everything you need, except the actual transmission.

 

jmoney is on the right track, you should either keep it old school and simple with a carbed engine or swap in and lt1. A good source for these are mid 90's cadillacs and caprices. These are both iron head versions of the lt1 but can be bought for alot less then a f-body lt1. I've seen complete running cars go for 800 to 900 dollars.