Alright, I've been looking into the LS1 and T56 Swap. I'm aware that the LS1 is an aluminum engine. I'd RATHER have the LS1, but, I'm finding LT1's everywhere for dirt cheap with 70-80k miles. The LT1 is an iron block I know, and I'd rather have a 96 up LT1 for OBDII. I've been thinking too, the LT1 produces more than enough power for what I need it for. I want a daily driver.

My only thoughts are
A) The weight, since it's an iron block, it'd have to weigh more than the LS1, but how much more? I can't find any weight figures..

B) I've got a guy that's willing to help me out withfabricating mounts and such..would it be better to go with SS?...or Aluminum Mounts?

I'd appreciate any helpful insight.
Thanks.
Nick.

 

It is hard to find (good) numbers on weights, as they don't often specify what all is included, but my impression is that the difference is pretty small because the LS1 block is beefier internally. The F-bodies didn't change weight much overall when they switched lt1-ls1.

I could be out of date, but I think the OBDI ecus are easier/cheaper to tune than OBDII. The 94/95 ecus are pin compatible with the OBDII harness though, so probably best to just get the best engine you can find 94 or newer.

I believe the LS1 is quite a bit wider.

The LT1 has a shitty distributor design, and the aftermarket replacements are expensive. The LS1 has a vastly better head design, the LT1 will need work on the heads if you want more than ~375hp.

 

They are totally different engines. The LT1 is basically the standard Chevy 350 c.i. that came out of the 265/283/327 engines. it's a 50 year old design I think. That said, both have the potential to make more than enough power but the LS series is just a better engine when you start throwing money at them.

Oh, and the LS-1 block is 53lbs lighter than the LT-1 block. I'm not sure about the weight fully dressed but I would guess the LT-1 weighs quite a lot more.

http://www.hpsalvage.com/lt1.htm

 

Thanks for the info. Since the issue seems to be with the LS1, that it is in fact a wider engine than the LT1, it may make for an easier fit in the end, and may make finding/fitting exhaust manifolds/headers a bit easier. I'm having doubts on how much time this Renesis has left. No CEL's, no more misfires, it's just ALWAYS hard to start, and the hard start is exacerbated when it's warm.

 

Time to call Rob at Pineapple Racing.

 

If I can source my parts through him, I'd just assume do that. A friend of mine has rebuilt 3 of these motors. I'd rather keep it stock than **** with this swap, but, now seeing how cheap these parts are, vs swapping the engine....well, you see what I'm saying.