I have a 97 Camaro RS that im wanting to convert to a v8. Im thinking all i need is the motor ( Fresh rebuilt 72 chevelle 350 4 bolt main ) , im going to use a 6 speed from a lt1 and what else should i need besides motor mounts? If i convert it to carb i dont need to change computers correct? Thanks for the help guys!

- Mike

 

You are going to have to do a lot of shoe horning to get a V8 with a rear distributor to fit in 4th gen Camaro. If your state has smog inspection, it most likeley won't pass the visual inspection, let alone the sniffer and check engine lite. Using an older model engine in a newer car is not permitted by federal law.

 

it aint gonna work dude...youd be better off buying a ls1 or lt1..or if you wanna get flamed left and right get a ford sbc with a front distributor

 

Im about to start the same swap and all i've heard so far is radiator, motor mounts, fuel lines, and stronger front springs

 

I am sure you will hear a lot more if you are ging to do it.

 

do you know what other things we might need to do this swap?

 

LOL good luck with that. I'll give you a hint, The frame section the motor mounts bolt to is design different. You can put the motor mounts in and the motor still will not fit. The cheapest way to do the swap is to get a doner car the same year as your V6 car. Go over to the V6 section, go into the FAQ area. Pick on the link for 3.4/3.8 to LT1 convertion. You will see a list of parts you are going to need.

As for putting an old school V8 in one of these. I have seen dozens of posts here and on other web sites from people who where going to do it. Some even started it. I have yet to one person post a pic or a vid of a completed car. I know there are some out there but I think you will find the guys that have done it will be the first in line to tell you it aint worth it. If you want to play with a old school V8 go find a 3rd gen. 3rd gen V6s with bad motors are being scraped daily and can be had for next to nothing.

 

ahhh i usually stick to mustangs...easier to work on, i love the way my camaro looks but there is so much space wasted on the front end in the engine bay. Does anyone know where i can find a cheap ls1 or lt1? I have been looking on craigs and have found a z28 for $1200 but it has a auto transmission. If i buy a lt1 or ls1 ill def. rebuild it with goodies while its out... thanks for all the help

 

Depends on what you call cheap. The decent T6 tranny will sell for $1500 by itself. I have seen LT1's 6 speeds cars sell for $2500 but those normaly need a bunch of work. LS1 6 speed combos are very sought after buy all kinds of hot roders. I have seen totaled 02 LS1-6 speeds sell for $4500.

 

you would be better off finding a donor car of the same year with a v8. that way you get all the wiring too.