[Steve91T]

So I've got a 97 SS that now looks like a mismatched LS1 SS. I'm running a craigslist LT1 that's bone stock, down to the mani's and Y pipe. The engine sat for years before I got it. I did a dry compression and leak down test and my numbers were all over the place. I took the chance that it just needed to be run. Long story short, it took a while but it started to run pretty good. So now I've done 3 track days and it and it blew me away. I fully expected to go home with no less than half of the Pistons I started the day with. Not only did it not miss a beat, it used at most 1/2 quart of oil, no smoke, and seemed happy as hell all day long.

So my plan was for an LS1 swap later this year. But now I'm thinking this engine might be healthier than I thought. TT3 rules require me to have around 350 rwhp for my comp weight (3400 lbs). I can knock 100 lbs off the nose by going to an LS1 and light flywheel and clutch. The problem I have is my LT1 isn't worth anything. $500? Maybe? I figure the LS1 swap will cost me at least $3k. But LT's, cam and tune will be about $1500. I figure both should get me close enough to 350 rwhp.

Right now I'm way down on power, so I have to do something. I really want an LS1, but is it worth an extra $1500? At the same time I'm afraid I'm going to buy headers and a cam and the next day it's going to blow up. What would you guys do?

[Steve91T]

Thanks for the opinions. There's a really good tuning shop around here. I stopped by to have them fix my speedo since I changed rear gears. They no longer support the LT1.

Anyway, one thing I forgot to add was that I have a 99 parts car. I've got everything I need except the engine, tranny, and wiring harness.

I would probably just drive to hawksthirdgen and pick out a nice 75k mile engine/t-56 for $4500. That includes all accessories, wiring harness and ECU. I could then sell my T-56 for probably $1800 since it's got only 99,000 miles on it. The LT1, maybe $500?

To meet my power goals, I'd install an LS6 cam/springs and keep the stock manifolds and have it tuned.

My LT1 already has a Moroso oil pan and I took the opti apart and put loctite on the screws. It makes great oil pressure. I've got an oil sample ready to be sent out. I'm curious to see what blackstone finds.

If I keep it, I need more power. LT's and a cam would do that. But then I still have an LT1.

Maybe I should throw it on Craigslist and see how much I can get for it while it's still running well. Idk

[CrashTestDummy]

Thanks for the opinions. There's a really good tuning shop around here. I stopped by to have them fix my speedo since I changed rear gears. They no longer support the LT1.

<SNIP>

Yeah, that's the crap we got from a local tuner, WHO TUNED OUR CAR A YEAR BEFORE!! Oh, we don't do LT1s anymore. That's one local customer lost, for ANYTHING. I'll drive to Alvin, or mail order first. FSCKERS!! But I'm not bitter. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif)

[Steve91T]

Thanks for the opinions. There's a really good tuning shop around here. I stopped by to have them fix my speedo since I changed rear gears. They no longer support the LT1.

<SNIP>

Yeah, that's the crap we got from a local tuner, WHO TUNED OUR CAR A YEAR BEFORE!! Oh, we don't do LT1s anymore. That's one local customer lost, for ANYTHING. I'll drive to Alvin, or mail order first. FSCKERS!! But I'm not bitter. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif)

Seriously, how much overhead can can there possibly be to keep a cable and a CD that says "LT1 Edit" in the drawer? They are saving money by turning away LT1 cars? I don't get it.